602 - R. VINKELES (1741-1816), The two pigeons, 1775, Etching

R. VINKELES (1741-1816), The two pigeons, 1775, Etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741 Amsterdam - 1816 ibid.): The Two Pigeons *Les deux pigeons*, a fable-like scene featuring pigeons set against an idyllic riverside landscape, 1775, Etching Technique: Etching on Paper Impression Quality: An absolutely superb, harmonious print with crisp lines and well-balanced tones. Inscription: lower left signed in the printing plate: "Vinkeles, del. et sculp.". At the lower part inscribed in the printing plate: "LES DEUX PIGEONS. Fable CLXXI.". Date: 1775 Description: Two doves are perched in the foreground on a stretch of riverbank; one bird is sitting upright and alert, the other is resting. Behind them lies an idealized landscape featuring a meandering stream, a bridge, a fortified settlement, tower-like buildings and a mill with a waterwheel on the right. A rocky mountain rises in the background beneath sweeping clouds. The composition draws the eye from the birds along the path into the distance. Delicate, even lines, dense hatching and horizontal sky hatching render light and space. The juxtaposition of the animal figures and the landscape suggests an emblematic or fable-like context. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621 -1695 ) Fables choisies, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Pigeons; Birds; Fable; Landscape; River; Mill; Waterwheel; Village; Tower; Bridge; Mountain; Clouds; Riverbank; Staffage; Architecture; Etching; Title cartouche; Black-and-white print; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19,4 cm x 12,9 cm (7,6 x 5,1 in), Depiction: 13,1 cm x 8,4 cm (5,2 x 3,3 in) Condition: Good condition. Overall, in good condition for its age and well preserved. Puncture marks from an old binding are visible on the side of the page edge. The corners of the sheets show minimal wear. There is some browning along the edges. A few faint mould stains are visible.