Blinde man met stok Possibly 1772 - 1833

Mathias de Sallieth created this print of a blind man with a stick in the late 18th century. During this period, the Enlightenment's emphasis on reason coexisted with widespread social inequality and poverty. Here, the image of a blind man is not just a depiction of disability; it is a social commentary. The man's posture, with his hand outstretched as if trying to find his way, evokes feelings of vulnerability and dependence. His clothing suggests he is not destitute, yet his blindness places him at the margins of society. The image prompts a dialogue about our own perceptions of independence and vulnerability. How does disability intersect with class and social status? What does it mean to navigate a world not built for everyone? This print challenges us to confront the social structures that define who is seen, who is heard, and whose experiences matter.