583 - R. VINKELES (1741–1816), A Lion, a Monkey, and Two Donkeys, 1777, Etching

R. VINKELES (1741–1816), A Lion, a Monkey, and Two Donkeys, 1777, Etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741, Amsterdam – 1816, ibid.): A lion, a monkey, and two donkeys: A fable scene featuring a lion, a monkey, and two donkeys in a rocky landscape, 1777, etching Technique: Etching on paper Print Quality: An absolutely superb, harmonious print, with delicate, clear lines and a well-balanced black tone. Inscription: Signed in the printing plate at the lower left: “Vinkeles, del. et sculp.” At the lower part, inscribed in the printing plate: “LE LION, LE SINGE ET LES DEUX ANES. Fable CCIX.” Date: 1777 Description: Within a rectangular frame, the sheet depicts a rocky landscape with a reclining lion in the right-hand foreground and a monkey to its left. In the middle ground, two donkeys stand on a hillock. A rocky outcrop and scrubland create a sense of depth, while a small stream enlivens the lower margin. The animals are depicted in poses that attentively relate to one another; the lion raises its head, while the monkey turns toward it. Delicate parallel hatching renders the sky, fur, rock, and ground. The depiction combines narrative animal figuration with a clear chiaroscuro scheme and, through the caption, alludes to a fable scene. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Lion; Monkey; Donkey; Fable; Depiction of animals; Rocky landscape; Scrub; Watercourse; Hill; Copperplate engraving; Book illustration; Caption; Framing; Hatching; Animal fable; Natural landscape; Foreground; Middle ground; Background; Narrative scene; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19.5 cm x 12.4 cm (7.7 x 4.9 in), Image: 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 sheet are slightly bumped. There is some browning along the edges. Water stains are visible across the entire sheet. Foxing is visible at the corners of the sheet.