Gammel blind mand og lille dreng 1826

Edvard Sonne created this line drawing, "Old Blind Man and Little Boy," in the 19th century. Sonne was working in the shadow of Neoclassicism, but this intimate sketch feels surprisingly modern. The drawing depicts an elderly man, his eyes closed or unfocused, seated with a child standing protectively beside him. Both figures are draped in classical robes, alluding to a timeless narrative of care and vulnerability. The old man rests his hand on his head in a gesture of contemplation, perhaps suggesting the wisdom that comes with age. The child, with a delicate hand raised, seems to be guiding or shielding the man. This role reversal challenges traditional representations of age and youth, prompting us to consider the complex interplay of dependence and support. Sonne's sensitive lines capture the emotional bond between them, suggesting a deep connection that transcends physical limitations. This drawing is a poignant exploration of empathy, challenging viewers to reflect on our own responsibilities to one another.