654 - R. VINKELES (1741-1816), The Scythian philosopher, 1769, Etching

R. VINKELES (1741-1816), The Scythian philosopher, 1769, Etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741 Amsterdam - 1816 ibid.): The Scythian Philosopher Le Philosophe Scythe, a fable scene featuring two men by a tree, 1769, 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: "LE PHILOSOPHE SCYTHE. Fable CCXXXIII". Date: 1769 Description: Within a rectangularly framed image, two male figures stand in a landscape beside a young tree. On the left, a man wearing a turban-like headdress and carrying a stick points to the crown; on the right, an older man with a small pruning tool leans over the trunk and prepares to prune it. Behind them are shrubs, a river or canal, an arched bridge and buildings with tower-like features. The composition clearly distinguishes between the foreground, middle ground and architectural backdrop. Delicate parallel hatching renders the sky, folds in the garments and vegetation. The scene has a narrative intensity; the gestures and direction of gaze converge on the tree as a symbol of care, intervention and instruction. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621 -1695 ) Fables choisies, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Fable; Philosopher Scythe; two men; tree; pruning; landscape; bridge; building; tower; river; stick; tool; gesture; instruction; book illustration; print; French caption; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 20,7 cm x 13,0 cm (8,1 x 5,1 in), Depiction: 13,0 cm x 8,3 cm (5,1 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 water stains are visible. The top right-hand corner of the sheet is missing.