The Little Philosopher 1778

"The Little Philosopher," an etching by Jean-Pierre Norblin de la Gourdaine from 1778, depicts a young boy in a pensive pose, his gaze fixed on a skull resting on a table. The presence of the skull, a traditional symbol of mortality, serves as a reminder of the ephemeral nature of life, suggesting the boy is contemplating profound questions. This artwork, part of the Art Institute of Chicago's collection, exemplifies the use of etching, a technique that emphasizes line and texture, contributing to the overall atmosphere of introspection and contemplation.