517 - J. PUNT (1711–1779), *The Miser and His Lost Treasure*, 1762, etching

J. PUNT (1711–1779), *The Miser and His Lost Treasure*, 1762, etching Jan Punt (1711–1779): The Miser and His Lost Treasure, an illustration for the fable “L’Avare qui a perdu son trésor,” featuring two men at a well, 1762, etching Technique: Etching on paper Print Quality: An absolutely superb, harmonious print with crisp lines and well-balanced black tones. Inscription: Signed in the printing plate at the lower left: “J. Punt del. et sculps.” At the lower part, inscribed in the printing plate: “L’AVARE QUI A PERDU SON TRÉSOR. / Fable LXXX.” Date: 1762 Description: A rectangular sheet featuring a framed print and a French caption. Set in a landscape with a stone well or spring, a stream, a tree, and some bushes, two male figures in knee-length robes are depicted. On the left stands a figure with an outstretched arm and a raised index finger; on the right sits a second figure, leaning forward with his head resting in his hand, in a posture of lament or consternation. Water flows down from a vaulted outlet on the left. Delicate, regular hatching renders the terrain, masonry, and foliage; lighter areas open up the background. The viewer’s gaze is drawn from the dark water outlet, via the figures’ gestures, to the inscribed plinth. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Fable; genre scene; two men; landscape; watercourse; fountain; wall; tree; gesture; lament; loss; French inscription; book illustration; etching; hatching; vault; seated figure; standing figure; morality; 18th century; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19.6 cm x 12.5 cm (7.7 x 4.9 in), Image: 13.1 cm x 8.6 cm (5.2 x 3.4 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 mold stains are visible.