Saturday, September 25, 2010

Herford: The Ass and the Image

An Ass once carried through the town
A precious Image of renown
Upon his back. Observing how
The crowds upon the streets would bow
Their heads devoutly as he passed
He thought they bowed to him. "At last!
Brayed he, "the world has come to see
My wisdom, my nobility,
My majesty, my strength of will!"
Reflecting thus, the Ass stood still;
Nor would he stir a step until
In angry tones the driver cried,
"Get up, you lazy beast!" and plied
His whip. "Maybe you think it's you
The people there are bowing to!
Things have come to a pretty pass
When folks turn out to laud an ASS!"

Source: Herford Aesop 19.
Asinus Sacra Portans

Click here for a SLIDESHOW of all the Billinghurst images. In the ancient world, the donkey was usually carrying an image of Isis, but here the story has been adapted to a Christian context!

M0249 Perry182

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