The Stubborn Donkey

Saint‑Non employed a combination of line etching and aquatint to achieve a range of tonal values, allowing the brown ink to render both delicate outlines and broader washes of shadow. The laid‑paper texture contributes subtle variation to the background, while the contrast between darker figures and lighter areas creates a sense of depth and movement within the confined setting.

The print was produced in Paris during the artist’s mature period and later entered the National Gallery of Art’s holdings, where it remains on view. Its acquisition reflects the museum’s interest in representing the breadth of French print culture from the pre‑revolutionary era.