Ébats de canards 1850 - 1914

Félix Bracquemond etched this scene of ducks in water, a subject rich with symbolism. Since ancient times, ducks have represented adaptability and resourcefulness, moving between water, earth, and air. Think of ancient Egyptian art, where waterfowl were commonly depicted, embodying life and renewal. Here, Bracquemond captures the duck’s playful interaction with its environment. Consider how the image of a duck diving beneath the surface resonates across cultures. It’s as if it echoes a collective memory of transformation, perhaps a metaphor for our own subconscious journeys. Even in modern animation, ducks often symbolize resilience and a lighthearted approach to life's challenges. This primal connection with nature, rendered with such delicate detail, has the power to tap into our deepest emotional reserves. The duck motif is a powerful force in our shared visual vocabulary.