A blind hurdy-gurdy player and family receiving alms after 1648

This anonymous etching, "A Blind Hurdy-Gurdy Player and Family Receiving Alms" (after 1648), depicts a poignant scene of a blind hurdy-gurdy player and his family seeking charity. The composition emphasizes the plight of the disabled and the importance of compassion. The scene is rendered with masterful detail, capturing the expressions of both the beggars and the donor, as well as the textures of their clothing. This work is a testament to the social realities of 17th-century Dutch life, highlighting the widespread practice of begging and the role of charity in society. The etching is a powerful reminder of the enduring human need for compassion and support.