529 - J. PUNT (1711–1779), *The Swan and the Cook*, 1761, etching

J. PUNT (1711–1779), *The Swan and the Cook*, 1761, etching Jan Punt (1711–1779): The Swan and the Cook. An illustration of a fable featuring a cook and a swan in a kitchen, 1761, etching Technique: Etching on paper Print Quality: An absolutely superb, harmonious print, with crisp detail and beautifully graded blacks. Inscription: Signed in the printing plate at the lower left: "J. Punt del. et sculps.". Inscribed in the printing plate at the bottom: "LE CIGNE ET LE CUISINIER. Fable LIV." Date: 1761 Description: In a kitchen, a young chef wearing a plain cap and an unbuttoned work shirt is sitting on a bench, cutting up a large swan with a knife. The bird lies across his knees, while another hangs upside down from a set of scales. To the right, a stove fire blazes beneath a chimney; pots, bowls, and utensils bring the room to life. A barred window on the left and shelves create a sense of depth. The etching employs dense cross-hatching, delicate contours, and nuanced chiaroscuro modeling. The viewer’s gaze is drawn to the artisanal activity; the swan serves as a narratively emphasized symbol within an illustration of a fable. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Kitchen; Cook; Swan; Poultry; Open fire; Fireplace; Knife; Scales; Window; Bench; Shelves; Cookware; Fable; Illustration; Interior; Craft; etching; Depiction of an animal; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19.5 cm x 12.6 cm (7.7 x 5 in), Illustration: 13.0 cm x 8.4 cm (5.1 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. Slight browning along the edges. A few faint mold stains are visible. A mark, possibly from pressure or a scratch, on the lower right-hand corner of the page.