A Peasant Family and Two Donkeys 

Bartolomeo Pinelli created this watercolor, entitled "A Peasant Family and Two Donkeys" sometime in the early 19th century. Pinelli was a printmaker by trade, a skilled artisan who made his living producing images for popular consumption. His approach to watercolor is similar: direct, efficient, and descriptive. See how he evokes the texture of the donkey’s fur with just a few quick strokes. The scene itself shows a family on the move, perhaps in search of work. The amount of labor involved in simply surviving at this time was immense; every able-bodied person was expected to contribute. There’s nothing romantic about Pinelli’s depiction. Instead, he has given us a matter-of-fact glimpse into the lives of ordinary people. By focusing on materials, processes, and social context, we gain a deeper understanding of this artwork. It blurs the boundaries between fine art and craft, offering insight into the human condition.