Folly in sacks

A series of figures in sacks, with only their heads visible, are arranged in a row in a dark, empty space in which they seem to submerge, almost merging into it. On the left is a group whose facial features are unified in a single rictus. The first of the figures in this group stands out, towering above the others as if he were the ringleader. Next to him, five other figures are gathered around him and one of them is leaning over as if trying to get out of the circle they have drawn.

An enigmatic and gloomy scene, impregnated with great silence and gloom, in which the figures contemplate absolute silence, all of them enthralled in their irrational attitudes. It is common to establish a connection with politics, seeing in this scene a meeting or assembly, or even a prince or minister in the figure in the foreground. It could also be a criticism of the aristocracy, which would be shown stripped of all its rich clothing but maintaining that haughty and even ridiculous attitude so characteristic of it.

The figures are outlined in the dark aquatint background, achieved by means of very compact parallel lines of etching.

The possible preparatory drawing for the present print entitled Characters in sacks, has been preserved.