Vertrek van Sancho naar het eiland Barataria 1691 - 1767

Louis Surugue made this print titled, "Departure of Sancho to the Island of Barataria," using etching. Made in the 18th century, this piece reflects the era's fascination with social hierarchy and power dynamics. We see the figure Sancho, from Cervantes’s famous novel *Don Quixote*, taking leave to govern his island. Look closely, and you will see that Surugue captures a poignant moment of farewell. Notice the kneeling figure expressing reverence, and the tearful goodbyes from the women to the left, which highlights the emotional complexity of Sancho's new role, while also reflecting how the artist and his contemporaries viewed power and governance through the lens of emotion and personal relationships. What does it mean to elevate a commoner to a position of authority? What impact would this elevation have on the community and the individual? This artwork is a reflection on the expectations and realities of leadership and social mobility during the Enlightenment.