Kop van een ezel, van voren 1818

This is a drawing of a donkey’s head, made by Jean Bernard around the turn of the 19th century, using graphite on paper. The artist has focused on the donkey’s face, exploring its texture, weight, and form. It’s a humble medium and a straightforward subject. Drawings like this were often made as studies, and this one may have been preparation for a larger painting or print. You see the artist’s concern with close observation, but also a sensitivity to the animal’s character. The donkey’s downturned mouth and heavy-lidded eyes suggest a burdened existence. At the time this drawing was made, animals like donkeys were crucial to the European economy, providing essential labor in agriculture and transportation. In some ways, this image serves as a reminder of their contribution. By focusing our attention on the artistry and meaning behind this modest graphite drawing, we can move beyond conventional distinctions between fine art and craft.