620 - R. VINKELES (1741-1816), A fool and a wise man, 1781, Etching

R. VINKELES (1741-1816), A fool and a wise man, 1781, Etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741 Amsterdam - 1816 ibid.): A fool and a wise man Un fou et un sage, Fable CCXXXV featuring two figures on the riverbank, 1781, Etching Technique: Etching on Paper Impression Quality: An absolutely superb, harmonious print with crisp, well-defined lines and a well-balanced black tone. Inscription: lower left signed in the printing plate: "Vinkeles, del. et sculp.". At the lower part inscribed in the printing plate: "UN FOU ET UN SAGE. Fable CCXXXV.". Date: 1781 Description: Two male figures stand on the bank of a river in front of a rural scene featuring a bridge, trees and a tower in the distance. On the left, a younger, barefoot man in loose-fitting, flowing clothing is hurrying after; his demeanour appears impetuous, his head bowed. On the right, he is met by an older, bearded man in a long robe, making a sweeping, instructive gesture. A small secondary figure appears in the middle ground. The composition clearly contrasts the foreground action with the expansive landscape. Delicate parallel hatching and dense cross-hatching render the bodies, robes and vegetation; the sky remains lighter in tone. The scene narratively unfolds the contrast between rashness and wisdom. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621 -1695 ) Fables choisies, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: two men; riverbank; landscape; bridge; village; tower; trees; scholar; young man; gesture; encounter; fable; book illustration; barefoot; robe; instruction; etching; engraving; French title; 18th century; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19,7 cm x 12,8 cm (7,8 x 5 in), Depiction: 13,0 cm x 8,2 cm (5,1 x 3,2 in) Condition: Good condition. Overall, in good condition for its age. Puncture marks from an old binding are visible on the side of the page edge. The corners of the sheets are slightly bumped. Slight browning along the edges. A few faint mould stains are visible. Slightly dusty along the lower margin of the sheet and with pale discolouration on the right-hand side.