597 - R. VINKELES (1741-1816), The Donkey and the Dog, 1773, Etching

R. VINKELES (1741-1816), The Donkey and the Dog, 1773, Etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741 Amsterdam - 1816 ibid.): The Donkey and the Dog An illustration for a fable featuring a donkey and a dog in front of a bridge and a mountainous landscape, 1773, Etching Technique: Etching on Paper Impression Quality: The lines are clearly defined with a lovely black tone; overall, a fresh and well-balanced print. Inscription: lower left signed in the printing plate: "Vinkeles, del. et sculp.". At the lower part inscribed in the printing plate: "L'ÂNE ET LE CHIEN. Fable CLIX.". Date: 1773 Description: Within a rectangular frame, a narrative landscape unfolds, featuring a large tree on the left, a bridge, buildings and mountains in the background. In the foreground, a dog is attacking a donkey lying on the ground next to some untied luggage; their bodies are entwined in a tense pose. On the left, two small human figures rest beneath the tree. Delicate parallel hatching defines the sky, ground and architecture, whilst denser cross-hatching deepens the shaded areas. The composition leads from the dramatic animal struggle on the right across the bridge into the distance. The contrast between the idyllic landscape and the violent scene emphasises the moralising nature of this fable illustration. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621 -1695 ) Fables choisies, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Donkey; Dog; Fable; Landscape; Bridge; Village; Mountains; Tree; Luggage; Animal fight; River; Architecture; Figurative elements; Book illustration; Engraving; Moral scene; Riverbank; Figurative figure; Narrative picture; France; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19,4 cm x 12,7 cm (7,6 x 5 in), Depiction: 13,4 cm x 8,5 cm (5,3 x 3,3 in) Condition: Rather good condition. The paper is yellowed and slightly wavy, with scattered waterstains and age spots, creases along the edges, small tears at the edges and slight signs of wear; the wide margin is intact.