Olifant balancerend op een bal met een man op zijn rug 1856 - 1897

Henri-Charles Guérard's "Olifant balancerend op een bal met een man op zijn rug" (1856-1897) is a striking etching depicting a circus elephant balancing on a ball with a man on its back. The detailed illustration, now in the Rijksmuseum, captures the dynamic pose of the elephant and the man's precarious position. The contrast between the elephant's massive form and the man's diminutive stature creates a sense of tension and wonder, highlighting the skills of both the animal and its trainer. The artist's use of shading and detail emphasizes the intricate textures of the elephant's skin and the man's clothing, bringing the scene to life. This captivating artwork offers a glimpse into the world of 19th-century circus performance and captures the extraordinary relationship between humans and animals.