Original Artwork: Vanves 2 – Caroline Heinecke

Promptography
Fine Art Print

In 1750, in Vanves, northern France, a female donkey was designated as a victim in a sexual abuse trial.

The Ferron case involves Jacques Ferron, a Frenchman who, in 1750, was brought to trial and hanged for engaging in sexual intercourse with a female donkey. The trial took place in the municipality of Vanves, France, and Ferron was found guilty and sentenced to death by hanging. In such cases, it was customary for the animal to also be sentenced to death, but in this instance, the donkey was acquitted. The court ruled that the animal was a victim and had not acted of its own free will. A document dated September 19, 1750, was presented to the court on behalf of the donkey, attesting to the virtuous nature of the creature. Signed by the priest and other prominent residents of the municipality, it proclaimed that "they were ready to testify that she, in word and deed and in all her habits of life, is an honest creature."

Edition of 10

The print is delivered unframed.