The Donkey Laden with Food, from Emblematic Figures of Animals 1633

Adriaen van de Venne's "The Donkey Laden with Food" is a 1633 etching from his series "Emblematic Figures of Animals." This detailed print, which features a donkey burdened with a basket of goods, uses the animal as a symbol of hard work and perseverance. Set against a backdrop of a rural scene, the donkey is depicted in the foreground, its back laden with pots, pans, and other household items, conveying the daily struggles of carrying the weight of life's burdens. The print's detailed composition and realistic depiction of the donkey further enhance its symbolic meaning, showcasing the artist's mastery of etching techniques.