576 - R. VINKELES (1741–1816), Horse and Wolf, 1770, etching

R. VINKELES (1741–1816), Horse and Wolf, 1770, etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741 Amsterdam – 1816 ibid.): Horse and Wolf. A horse lashes out at an attacking wolf in a vast landscape, 1770, etching Technique: Etching on paper Print Quality: An absolutely superb, well-balanced print. Inscription: Signed in the printing plate at the lower left: “Vinkeles, del. et sculps.” At the lower part, inscribed in the printing plate: “LE CHEVAL ET LE LOUP. Fable XC.” Date: 1770 Description: A standing horse turns its head back to the left and kicks out with its hind leg at an attacking wolf. The horse occupies the foreground; its tense posture, raised tail, and diagonal stance heighten the sense of defense. The wolf crouches low, with its mouth open and forelegs stretched forward. In the background, riverbanks, hills, a wooded knoll on the right, as well as small buildings and a church tower in the distance come into view. Delicate parallel hatching renders the sky, ground, and fur, while chiaroscuro contrasts give the bodies a three-dimensional quality. The scene has an exemplary, fable-like character and combines animal combat with a moral narrative. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Horse; Wolf; Animal fight; Fable; Landscape; Riverbank; Hill; Village; Church tower; Group of trees; Attack; Defense; Etching; Hatching; Vignette; Title cartouche; 18th century; Depiction of animals; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19.5 cm x 12.9 cm (7.7 x 5.1 in), Image: 12.9 cm x 8.2 cm (5.1 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.