519 - J. PUNT (1711–1779), *The Woodcutter and Mercury*, 1762, etching

J. PUNT (1711–1779), *The Woodcutter and Mercury*, 1762, etching Jan Punt (1711–1779): The Woodcutter and Mercury The Woodcutter and Mercury, an illustrative fable print with a mythological theme, 1762, Etching Technique: Etching on paper Print Quality: An absolutely superb, harmonious print, with delicate, clear 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: “LE BUCHERON ET MERCURE. A.M. LE C.D.B. / Fable LXXXXIII.” Date: 1762 Description: Within a rectangular frame, a woodcutter encounters Mercury, who appears on a cloud. The bearded man stands on the right wearing a short jacket, knee-length trousers, and stockings; his upper body is leaning forward, his arms outstretched in supplication. Mercury sits on a raised platform on the left, almost naked, wearing a winged helmet and a cloak, and holding a staff; the woodcutter’s lost axe can be seen at his feet. A tree frames the scene on the right, while clouds and a sky rendered with fine lines open up the background. The composition thrives on the diagonal interplay of the gestures. Uniform hatching renders the bodies, clouds, and earth in nuanced chiaroscuro. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Woodcutter; Mercury; Axe; Cloud; Tree; Landscape; Fable; Mythology; Encounter; Gesture; Book illustration; Title cartouche; French text; Winged helmet; Engraving; Allegory; Moral scene; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19.5 cm x 12.5 cm (7.7 x 4.9 in), Illustration: 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 along the side of the page edge; the top is slightly torn. The corners of the sheets are slightly bumped. There is some browning along the edges. A few faint mold stains are visible.