522 - J. PUNT (1711–1779), A Monkey on a Dolphin in the Sea, 1761, etching

J. PUNT (1711–1779), A Monkey on a Dolphin in the Sea, 1761, etching Jan Punt (1711–1779): A Monkey on a Dolphin in the Sea Le Singe et le Dauphin: A monkey on a dolphin in a dynamic seascape, 1761, 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 lower left corner of the printing plate: "J. Punt del. et sculps.". At the bottom, inscribed on the printing plate: “LE SINGE ET LE DAUPHIN. Fable LXVII.” Date: 1761 Description: Within a rectangular picture area, a dynamic seascape is depicted. In the foreground, a monkey sits crouched on the back of a dolphin, part of which is visible amidst the waves; the animal’s head emerges from the water on the right. The monkey faces the viewer. Behind them, jagged rocks rise out of the sea. Dense parallel and cross-hatching render the sky, the surf, and the rocks; light areas indicate spray and the horizon. The composition draws the eye from the churning water at the bottom to the group of figures and on to the rocks. The depiction has a narrative, emblematic character. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Monkey; Dolphin; Sea; Surf; Rocks; Fable; Depiction of an animal; Seascape; Waves; Coast; Etching; French title; Symbolism; Seascape; Horizon; Hatching; Monochrome; Animal allegory; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19.4 cm x 12.8 cm (7.6 x 5 in), Image: 13.1 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.