Balkende ezels 1616 - 1689

Charles II Errard created this print called "Balkende ezels" using etching techniques. Immediately, the eye is drawn to the composition, where three donkeys are positioned in a dynamic, almost theatrical arrangement across the picture plane. The lines are etched with varying degrees of intensity, creating a contrast between light and shadow that enhances the texture of the animals' coats and the surrounding landscape. The formal qualities of this print—its stark contrasts and detailed lines—invite a semiotic interpretation. The braying donkeys, rendered with such expressive detail, act as signs. This challenges conventional artistic representations of animals, which often prioritize beauty or symbolism over raw expression. The landscape, with its trees and foliage, is not merely a backdrop but an integral part of the composition, adding depth and a sense of space. The image serves as a reminder that art is not just about aesthetics but also about how we perceive and interpret the world around us.