Beggar leaning on a stick, facing left 1719 - 1780

François Vivares created this etching titled "Beggar leaning on a stick, facing left" sometime in the 18th century. Vivares, born in France but working primarily in England, lived during a period of significant social stratification, which saw an increase in both wealth and poverty. This image offers a glimpse into the lives of the marginalized. The beggar's posture, leaning heavily on his stick, conveys a sense of exhaustion. His clothes, rendered with intricate lines, suggest poverty and hardship. The image is not simply a representation of poverty, but an engagement with the human condition. Vivares does not shy away from depicting the vulnerability of the beggar, inviting the viewer to empathize with his plight, in a society quick to ignore those on the fringes. The work serves as a reminder of the complex social issues present in the 18th century.