The Guardians of the House, or the Acrobat's Companions c. 1877

"The Guardians of the House, or the Acrobat's Companions" is a drypoint etching by Félix Hilaire Buhot from 1877. The print depicts a scene of a simple, rural life with a wagon, two dogs, and a donkey. The work is considered a prime example of Buhot’s mastery of drypoint etching, with its rich, dark tones and expressive lines. The Art Institute of Chicago houses this artwork. This etching highlights the artist's interest in the everyday life of ordinary people, a theme that he explored in his art throughout his career.