My DAM Favorite
La Famille du Saltimbanque: L’enfant Blessé (The Family of Street Acrobats: The Injured Child) About 1873. Oil paint on canvas. w: 51 ½ in, h: 76 ¾ in.
Gustave Doré. French, 1832-1883.
This piece is one of my favorite artworks here at the Denver Art Museum. The massive oil painting, measuring at 76 ¾ in by 51 ½ in, has the innate ability to draw the attention of all company. Due to the saddening, intimate scene it is no wonder that it has become greatly cherished by the museum and its visitors.
Doré had a fine love for the French street performers known as Saltimbanques. As precursors to our popular circus acrobats, they entertained spectators with their extravagant costumes, impressive juggling acts, and audacious stunts. During those times of common financial insufficiency, the troupes were frequently formed by family members, as it was one of the few paths to acquiring a moderate living.
When attending a performance, Doré witnessed a devastating sight, the young child of a family of three fell from a great height. One can only imagine the fatality of such a situation, however, with Doré’s compelling portrayal of the aftermath, this is made clear. Very sadly, the boy performer succumbed to his injuries.
Observers can’t help but feel the immense pain emanating from the mother and father. Both parents wearing sorrowful, defeated faces, feeling guilty for the unfortunate position in which they have put their beloved son. The father’s tears glistening in the exhibition spotlight draws visitors in even further, leaving a lump in any humane heart. As observers we see the parents grieving their child as they silently know the inevitable outcome.
As Doré intended, the art piece emphasizes the grim realities of the lower classes. Boldly causing viewers to ponder the severity of the family’s circumstances so as to need the assistance of the sweet little child to meet basic needs. Although addressing the socio-economic ranks of the 19th century, Doré’s work easily translates to those of this day and age. Across the globe we find millions of people burdened with the unjust systems built around them. The undeserved consequences of such regimes oftentimes include the forced participation in dangerous labor, ultimately placing the lives of these victims — because that is what they are, victims — at high risk.
It’s distressing to know the regularity of this ‘way of life’ as most of those living it, were born into it.
Governments prey on the defenseless. The defenseless are weighed down by the endless rules and tricks made to keep them at bay. Without power, they remain stuck. The defenseless is the powerless, and the powerless will always be powerless.
Coming Up Next on MYDAMFAV:
Rosina Ferrara, Head of a Capri Girl by John Singer Sargent