L'Ossian Moderne, 1807

1807

Ossian is an Irish bard said to have lived in third century, although some believe that he was mythical. In this image he is reduced to the role of street musician rather than a respected poet. He is shown playing drums with his feet, plucking a harp with one hand, and playing a wind instrument with the other. A woman holds out a cup for alms to a reticent bystander.