518 - J. PUNT (1711–1779), *The Oracle and the Wicked Man*, 1762, etching

J. PUNT (1711–1779), *The Oracle and the Wicked Man*, 1762, etching Jan Punt (1711–1779): The Oracle and the Wicked Man The Oracle and the Wicked Man before an ancient temple, Fable LXXIX, 1762, Etching Technique: Etching on paper Print Quality: An absolutely superb, harmonious print with crisp, well-defined lines and a well-balanced black tone. 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’ORACLE ET L’IMPIE. Fable LXXIX.” Date: 1762 Description: A kneeling figure, dressed in ancient style, turns toward a female apparition on clouds, her arms raised; the apparition stands on a high plinth above a smoking sacrificial bowl. On the right, a monumental colonnade with an entablature and roof figures frames the scene. The gaze rises from the foreground, past the worshipper, toward the vision. Delicate, even hatching renders the robes, clouds, stone surfaces, and sky; dense lines darken the plinth and portico. Facial expressions and gestures emphasize supplication and revelation. The composition combines ritual action, architectural order, and a narratively heightened apparition within a classical setting. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Oracle; Temple; Vision; Ancient architecture; Colonnade; kneeling figure; female figure; clouds; incense smoke; plinth; gable figures; patterned robe; fable illustration; Classical period; cult scene; engraving; hatching; inscription; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19.3 cm x 12.3 cm (7.6 x 4.8 in), Image: 13.3 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. There is some browning along the edges. A few faint mold stains are visible.