579 - R. VINKELES (1741–1816), *The Discord*, 1770, etching

R. VINKELES (1741–1816), *The Discord*, 1770, etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741, Amsterdam – 1816, ibid.): Discord *La Discorde*, an allegorical scene featuring a winged youth and a torchbearer, 1770, etching Technique: Etching on paper Print Quality: An absolutely superb, harmonious print with crisp lines and well-balanced black tones. Inscription: Signed in the printing plate in the lower left: “Vinkeles, del. et sculps.” At the bottom, inscribed in the printing plate: “LA DISCORDE. Fable CXXIII.” Date: 1770 Description: A rectangular framed print depicting two idealized figures in a wooded landscape. In the lower left-hand corner, a winged, naked youth sits on a rock, his upper body turned backward, his gaze raised toward the approaching figure. On the right, a female personification appears on clouds, with billowing drapery and a torch held aloft; her hair and veil enhance the sense of movement. A diagonal axis of gaze and gesture stretches between the two. Tree trunks on the left and cloud formations frame the scene. Delicate parallel and crisscrossed hatching renders the bodies, foliage, and sky. Chiaroscuro contrasts clearly distinguish the figures from the background. The caption identifies the subject as Discord. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Allegory; Personification; winged youth; female figure; torch; clouds; forest; rock; drapery; conflict; book illustration; engraving; hatching; title cartouche; landscape; movement; putto; Discord; Emblem; 18th century; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19.8 cm x 12.6 cm (7.8 x 5 in), Image: 12.9 cm x 8.3 cm (5.1 x 3.3 in) Condition: In fairly good condition. The paper is yellowed and slightly wavy, with a few small stains and soiling along the edges; on the right-hand side there are folds or traces of mounting, as well as pinholes from an old binding. There is a clear tear in the lower right corner.