Reverse Copy of Le Gueux Appuyé sur son Baton (The Beggar Leaning on His Cane), from "Les Gueux suite appelée aussi Les Mendiants, Les Baroni, ou Les Barons" (The Beggars, also called the Barons) 1625 - 1700

This print of a beggar leaning on his cane was created by an anonymous artist. It is part of a series of prints depicting beggars. Prints like this circulated widely and played a vital role in shaping social attitudes towards poverty. In many European societies, the figure of the beggar was both pitied and feared. Perceived as a threat to social order, beggars were often subject to harsh laws and discriminatory practices. This print offers a glimpse into the lives of those marginalized members of society. The image could be used as a tool to create empathy, but it also perpetuates stereotypes about the poor. Historians turn to various sources – from legal documents and social surveys to literature and art – to understand the complex history of poverty and its representation. By examining the social and institutional contexts in which art is made, we can gain a deeper understanding of its meaning and significance.