Nello Tarth is a penniless yet content orphan who resides with his grandfather Jehan in a modest hamlet close to Antwerp. From the moment he first laid eyes on a Rubens masterpiece as a child, Nello discovered an innate gift for sketching and has since been captivated by the art form. While assisting Jehan on the daily milk run to Antwerp, Nello stumbles upon Patrash, a weary working dog abandoned by its former master. He tends to the exhausted animal and soon forges a steadfast bond between them. Alois Cojez, daughter of the wealthiest and most influential figure in Blacken Village, stands as Nello"s closest companion. When Nello resolves to pursue a career in painting, he confronts the villagers" blatant ignorance and cruelty; particularly Alois"s father dismisses him as a sluggard who cannot make a living from art. Nevertheless, Nello remains resolute, refusing to surrender his aspirations and striving relentlessly to earn their admiration and respect while battling relentless poverty and enduring constant hardship. And striving for hope.