Two donkeys standing in a grassy yard, one in profile view facing right and another behind in three-quarter view, a dog and a building wall with two windows beyond 1652

This small, subtle etching by Karel Dujardin features two donkeys in a grassy yard, likely rendered in the mid-17th century. Donkeys, often symbols of humility and patience, stand here before us, their quiet presence a stark contrast to the grand narratives of the time. The donkey has been depicted in art across millennia, from ancient Egyptian reliefs to medieval Christian iconography, where it bore Christ into Jerusalem. Often, this animal carries connotations of burden and suffering, yet also of steadfastness. Consider how the image of a donkey burdened with goods mirrors the human condition, laden with life's responsibilities. This humble beast, whether in ancient friezes or Renaissance paintings, evokes a deep sense of empathy, reminding us of the universal struggles and quiet endurance that bind humanity together.