621 - R. VINKELES (1741-1816), Belphegor, 1781, Etching

R. VINKELES (1741-1816), Belphegor, 1781, Etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741 Amsterdam - 1816 ibid.): Belphegor Belphegor, surrounded by a group of figures, book illustration featuring a figure holding a trident, 1781, Etching Technique: Etching on Paper Impression Quality: An absolutely superb, well-balanced print. Inscription: lower left signed in the printing plate: "Vinkeles, del. et sculp.". At the lower part inscribed in the printing plate: "BELPHEGOR. Fable CCXLIV.". Date: 1781 Description: Within a rectangular panel, a dramatic scene unfolds featuring several naked and partially clothed figures in a rocky setting filled with flames and smoke. On the right, a crowned male figure with a trident is either floating or leaping towards the scene, pointing his arm imperiously at the group on the left. There, frightened figures turn towards a man standing in the centre; some are cowering, others are gesturing defensively. Hatching and finely drawn lines render the bodies, rocks, smoke and fire with great detail. Light areas amongst the flames contrast with dark patches of cloud. The composition builds up diagonally from the bottom left to the top right, emphasising the threat, the apparition and the collective reaction. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621 -1695 ) Fables choisies, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Belphegor; fable; demon; trident; flames; smoke; nude figures; group; rocks; apparition; underworld; allegory; book illustration; engraving; historical painting; gesture; Crown; Inscription; Vinkeles; 1781; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19,7 cm x 13,1 cm (7,8 x 5,2 in), Depiction: 13,0 cm x 8,3 cm (5,1 x 3,3 in) Condition: Rather good condition. Overall, in good condition for its age and well preserved. Puncture marks from an old binding are visible along the side of the page edge. The corners of the sheets are slightly bumped. Slightly browned along the edges. A few faint mould stains are visible. Slightly dusty along the edges. A long tear along the bottom right-hand edge.