499 - J. PUNT (1711–1779), The Farmstead of Fables XXVII, 1759, Etching

J. PUNT (1711–1779), The Farmstead of Fables XXVII, 1759, Etching Jan Punt (1711–1779): Farmstead from the Fables XXVII A rural farmstead as an illustration for “La Chauve-Souris et les deux Belettes,” 1759, etching Technique: Etching on paper Print Quality: An absolutely superb, harmonious print, with delicate, clear lines and nuanced hatching. Inscription: Signed in the printing plate at the lower left: “J. Punt del. et sculps.” At the lower part, inscribed in the printing plate: “LA CHAUVE-SOURIS ET LES DEUX BELETTES. Fable XXVII.” Date: 1759 Description: Within a rectangularly framed image, a rural farmstead is depicted, consisting of two houses built side by side, with steep roofs, small windows, and irregular masonry. Tall trees are arranged in tiers behind it, while bushes and a low fence enliven the foreground. There are no figures or animals. The composition guides the eye diagonally from the front left toward the taller building on the right. Delicate, even lines and dense hatching render the walls, roofs, and treetops; open patches of sky create brightness. The balance between architecture and vegetation appears harmonious. The French inscription below identifies the sheet as an illustration for a fable. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Farmstead; Farmhouse; Architecture; Trees; Shrubbery; Fence; Landscape; Fable illustration; Book illustration; Etching; Hatching; Rural scenery; Masonry; Roofscape; Title cartouche; France; 18th century; Printed art; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19.7 cm x 13.3 cm (7.8 x 5.2 in), Image: 13.3 cm x 8.3 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 are slightly bumped. There is some browning along the edges. A few faint mold stains are visible.