The King’s Pet Donkey Henry Justice Ford (1860-1941)

Here we observe a scene unfolding within what appears to be a grand hall or palace chamber. The composition is framed by an ornate archway, suggesting a deliberate presentation of the events occurring within. A central figure, presumably a monarch judging from his crown and regal bearing, sits upon a raised platform, attended by a young man in servant’s attire.
The focal point of the drawing lies with a donkey positioned prominently at the lower center. The animal is being showered with coins, an action that immediately establishes a narrative of absurdity or satire. A figure, clad in breeches and stockings, actively throws coins onto the donkeys back, while another individual stands nearby, seemingly observing the spectacle.
The artist’s use of line work creates a sense of texture and depth. The rough hatching on the donkey’s fur contrasts with the smoother rendering of the figures’ clothing, drawing attention to the animal as the object of this unusual display of wealth. The architectural details – the columns, arches, and ceiling – are rendered with considerable precision, reinforcing the settings opulence.
Subtexts within the drawing suggest a critique of royal extravagance or folly. The act of showering a donkey with coins is inherently illogical and wasteful, implying that the king’s judgment may be questionable. The young man attending to the king appears somewhat detached, perhaps indicating his own awareness of the situations absurdity. The overall tone leans towards gentle mockery rather than outright condemnation; it seems intended to entertain as much as to critique.
The inscription at the bottom, The King’s Pet Donkey, serves as a straightforward title but also reinforces the theme of the king’s peculiar affections and potentially misguided priorities. It is likely that this drawing intends to convey a moral lesson about humility, wisdom, or the dangers of unchecked power through humor and visual exaggeration.