#10947 Rafael Zabaleta

Here we see a drawing composed of several distinct vignettes arranged in a vertical format. The overall impression is one of folk life and rural existence, rendered with a simplified, almost schematic style. A warm yellow background provides a stark contrast to the dark brown lines used for the figures and objects.
The dominant image at the top depicts a woman seated atop a donkey. Her posture suggests weariness or resignation, while her attire – a wide-brimmed hat and simple garment – indicates a working-class status. The donkey itself is rendered with elongated features, emphasizing its role as a beast of burden. To the right of this central figure, a smaller scene unfolds: what appears to be a group of people gathered around another donkey, possibly engaged in some form of trade or communal activity. A building, perhaps a dwelling or workshop, is suggested in the background, adding depth and context to the scene.
Below the main image are two smaller vignettes that seem to echo the themes presented above. One shows a similar woman riding a donkey, while the other depicts another figure on a donkey alongside what appears to be children or small figures engaged in playful activity. These repeated motifs reinforce the cyclical nature of rural life and labor.
The artist’s use of line is particularly noteworthy. The lines are bold and continuous, lacking any shading or subtle variation. This contributes to the drawings graphic quality and emphasizes the essential forms of the subjects. Theres a deliberate flatness to the composition; perspective is minimal, creating a sense of immediacy and directness.
The work evokes a feeling of quiet observation, as if the artist were documenting everyday moments in a rural community. The simplicity of the style lends itself to an almost universal appeal, suggesting themes of labor, resilience, and the enduring connection between people and animals within a traditional setting. While seemingly straightforward, the drawing’s repetitive imagery and stark contrast invite contemplation on the routines and burdens inherent in such a lifestyle.