599 - R. VINKELES (1741–1816), *The Wolf and the Hunter*, 1773, etching

R. VINKELES (1741–1816), *The Wolf and the Hunter*, 1773, etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741, Amsterdam – 1816, ibid.): The Wolf and the Hunter The Wolf and the Hunter, a scene from a fable featuring a dead hunter and a slain wild boar, 1773, Etching Technique: Etching on paper Print Quality: An absolutely superb, harmonious print with crisp lines and well-balanced tones. Inscription: Signed in the printing plate at the lower left: “Vinkeles, del. et sculp.” At the bottom, inscribed in the printing plate: “LE LOUP ET LE CHASSEUR. Fable CXXIX.” Date: 1773 Description: A dramatic forest scene unfolds within a rectangular picture area. On the left, a wolf leaps up a tree trunk; at the bottom, a second wolf sits with its head raised, next to a bow and arrows. On the right lie a felled wild boar and a hunter in period clothing, stretched out on the ground. A bird flies across the sky on the right. The middle ground opens onto a light-filled path with a group of trees, while the background remains flat and bright. Delicate parallel hatching adds texture to the sky, ground, fur, and foliage. Diagonal lines of sight connect the wolf, the prey, and the hunter, intensifying the narrative of the hunt, danger, and the reversal of roles. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Wolf; Hunter; Wild boar; Forest; Tree; Bird; Bow; Arrows; Fable; Hunting; Landscape; Depiction of an animal; Book illustration; Engraving; Hatching; French title; Dramatic scene; Reclining figure; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19.7 cm x 13.1 cm (7.8 x 5.2 in), Illustration: 13.2 cm x 8.3 cm (5.2 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 sheets show minimal wear. There is some browning along the edges. A few faint mold stains are visible.