Reverse Copy of L'Aveugle et son Compagnon (The Blind Man and his Companion), from Les Gueux suite appelée aussi Les Mendiants, Les Baroni, ou Les Barons (The Beggars, also called the Barons) 1625 - 1700

This is an anonymous etching, ‘Reverse Copy of L'Aveugle et son Compagnon’, made with fine lines and a sharp contrast between light and shadow. The composition presents two figures, presumably a blind man and his companion, rendered with detailed textures that evoke a sense of destitution. The use of line in this print is striking; it not only defines the forms but also creates a palpable sense of depth and texture, particularly in the clothing and facial features of the figures. The companion holds out a hat, his gaze cast downward. Here, each stroke signifies more than mere representation. We can consider this a visual language of poverty and survival. The stark contrast between the highlighted and shadowed areas amplifies the emotional weight of the subject matter. This contrast embodies the social and economic disparities prevalent at the time. The material roughness of the etching mirrors the harsh realities faced by the marginalized. It challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about society.