The Departure of Sancho Panza for the Island of Barataria c. 18th century

This 18th-century drawing by Charles-Joseph Natoire, "The Departure of Sancho Panza for the Island of Barataria," depicts a scene from Miguel de Cervantes's novel *Don Quixote*. Sancho Panza, the loyal but simple-minded squire of Don Quixote, is being sent on a mission to govern the fictitious island of Barataria. Natoire's sketch captures the moment of Sancho's departure, with a crowd of onlookers watching as he mounts his donkey. The artist's loose and gestural lines contribute to the scene's dynamic and lively feel, capturing the energy of the moment. This piece is a testament to the enduring popularity of *Don Quixote* and the artistic legacy of the novel's iconic characters.