509 - J. PUNT (1711–1779), A Cat and a Pig in a Tree, 1760, Etching

J. PUNT (1711–1779), A Cat and a Pig in a Tree, 1760, Etching Jan Punt (1711–1779): A Cat and a Pig in a Tree: An illustration of a fable featuring a cat, a pig, and a tree in front of some buildings, 1760, etching Technique: Etching on paper Print Quality: An absolutely superb, harmonious print with crisp lines and nuanced shades of gray. Inscription: Signed in the printing plate at the lower left: “J. Punt del. et sculps.” At the bottom, inscribed in the printing plate: “L’AIGLE, LA LAIE, ET LA CHATTE. / Fable XLVIII.” Date: 1760 Description: Within a rectangular frame, a landscape featuring a dead tree trunk as the central motif is depicted. On a horizontal branch, a cat strides along with its back arched and its body tense; another, smaller animal clings to the trunk. Below, a sow with her head bowed searches the ground. On the right are simple buildings; on the left, trees and the landscape stretch out into the distance. Delicate, regular hatching renders the fur, bark, clouds, and earth; chiaroscuro contrasts give the foreground a sense of depth. The viewer’s gaze is drawn diagonally upward across the tree trunk. The scene has a narrative quality and, through the caption, suggests an illustration for a fable. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Fable; Animals; Cat; Wild boar; Tree; Landscape; Building; Farmstead; Branches; Hatching; Engraving; Book illustration; French text; Narration; Depiction of animals; Earth; Clouds; Framing; 18th century; Allegory; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19.3 cm x 12.8 cm (7.6 x 5 in), Illustration: 13.2 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. Slight browning along the edges. A few faint mold stains are visible. Slightly stained on the right-hand side of the page edge.