595 - R. VINKELES (1741–1816), *The Advantage of Science*, 1773, etching

R. VINKELES (1741–1816), *The Advantage of Science*, 1773, etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741, Amsterdam – 1816, ibid.): The Advantage of Science L'Avantage de la Science, Fable CLXI, featuring two gentlemen in front of a garden design, 1773, Etching Technique: Etching on paper Print Quality: Clear lines with a beautiful, deep 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: “L’AVANTAGE DE LA SCIENCE. Fable CLXI.” Date: 1773 Description: Two men dressed in courtly attire meet in the foreground of an idealized garden setting. The man on the left strides forward with a cane or a sword, while the man on the right raises his hand in a gesture of instruction or objection. Their heads are turned toward one another, creating a sense of dialogue. Behind them, a colonnaded structure featuring arches, a balustrade, and statues comes into view; to the left, a tree, a slope, and a wall with a round tower frame the scene. Delicate, regular hatching gives form to the robes, architecture, and landscape. The space is clearly layered, extending from the shaded foreground through the central zone of the portico to a bright, cloudy distance. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: two men; courtly attire; walking stick; conversation; gestures; landscaped garden; portico; columns; balustrade; statue; tree; hilly landscape; tower; park scene; fable illustration; engraving; hatching; architectural backdrop; 18th century; book illustration; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19.6 cm x 13.3 cm (7.7 x 5.2 in), Image: 13.2 cm x 8.5 cm (5.2 x 3.3 in) Condition: In fairly good condition. The paper is yellowed and slightly stained, with discoloration at the margins, a few small holes and creases, particularly along the left margin; the corners and edges are partially bumped.