525 - J. PUNT (1711–1779), Birds in the Forest, 1761, Etching

J. PUNT (1711–1779), Birds in the Forest, 1761, Etching Jan Punt (1711–1779): Birds in the Forest: Forest landscape with birds and a title cartouche, dated 1761, 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 printing plate at the lower left: “J. Punt del. et sculps.” At the lower part, inscribed in the printing plate: “PTILOMELIE ET PROCNÉ. Table LVIII.” Date: 1761 Description: A tall, rectangular print depicts a wooded landscape with dense foliage, a light background, and a stream in the foreground. Several birds are perched on branches; one appears to be taking flight, while another sits centrally on a branch jutting out to the left. The composition features sturdy tree trunks in the foreground, open terrain in the center, and a bright background. Delicate hatching renders the foliage, bark, and sections of the ground; horizontal lines enliven the sky. There is no figurative narrative; instead, the emphasis lies on the observation of nature and the juxtaposition of still and moving bird forms. A labeled plinth links the sheet typologically to a series of natural history illustrations. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Forest landscape; Birds; Tree study; Riverbank; Watercourse; Depiction of nature; Engraving; Hatching; Foliage; Depiction of animals; Title cartouche; Book illustration; Natural history; Portrait orientation; Landscape; Branches; Pair of birds; Frontispiece-like; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19.3 cm x 12.9 cm (7.6 x 5.1 in), Image: 13.1 cm x 8.2 cm (5.2 x 3.2 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.