Two Boys Playing with a Dog 1515 - 1540

This small, yet detailed etching by German artist Barthel Beham, dating from the 16th century, captures the playful innocence of childhood. Two chubby, naked children interact with a dog, their small bodies and gestures evoking a sense of wonder and delight. The artist's meticulous lines and cross-hatching techniques create a realistic depiction of the scene, making this a charming and enduring example of Renaissance-era art. The etching, "Two Boys Playing with a Dog," is currently housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.