580 - R. VINKELES (1741–1816), *The Young Widow*, 1770, etching

R. VINKELES (1741–1816), *The Young Widow*, 1770, etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741, Amsterdam – 1816, ibid.): The Young Widow (La Jeune Veuve), Fable CXXIV, a woman in an elegant interior, 1770, etching Technique: Etching on paper Print Quality: An absolutely superb, harmonious print. Inscription: Signed in the printing plate at the lower left: “Vinkeles, del. et sculps.” At the lower part, inscribed in the printing plate: “LA JEUNE VEUVE. Fable CXXIV.” Date: 1770 Description: A solitary female figure stands in a richly decorated interior against a paneled wall and a tall mirror or window. The woman wears a long, flowing dress with a cloak and a headdress; her body is turned slightly, her head is turned to one side, and her hands rest in front of her body. Her reflection appears on the right. On the left, a fireplace and an ornate wall structure open up the space; a small sculpture and a landscape painting enliven the interior. Delicate parallel hatching, dense cross-hatching, and clearly defined areas render the fabrics, architecture, and light. The scene has a contemplative and narrative quality; the title of the picture suggests a literary fable. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Woman; Widow; Interior; Mirror; Fireplace; Wall paneling; Dress; Bonnet; Fable illustration; Genre scene; Single figure; Reflection; Depiction of a room; Ornament; Print; etching; engraving; Literature; Interior; 18th century; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19.6 cm x 12.7 cm (7.7 x 5 in), Image: 13.2 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.