603 - R. VINKELES (1741–1816), Fox, Flies, and Hedgehogs, 1779, Etching

R. VINKELES (1741–1816), Fox, Flies, and Hedgehogs, 1779, Etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741, Amsterdam – 1816, ibid.): Fox, Flies, and Hedgehog: A fable illustration featuring a fox, flies, and a hedgehog set against a rocky, ruined landscape, 1779, etching Technique: Etching on paper Print Quality: An absolutely superb, well-balanced print. Inscription: Signed in the printing plate at the lower left: “Vinkeles, del. et sculp.” At the lower part, inscribed in the printing plate: “LE RENARD, LES MOUCHES, ET LE HÉRISSON. Fable CCXXVI.” Date: 1779 Description: A rectangular-framed print depicting a rocky landscape with ruined architecture in the middle ground. In the foreground lie a dead fox and, beside it, a hedgehog on sandy ground; small dots on the animal’s body suggest flies. Scrub, trees, and steep rock faces create a sense of depth, drawing the eye toward a complex of buildings on the hilltop. The sky is cloudy and enlivened by delicate parallel hatching. The composition combines animal figures with a landscape scene, creating a strong sense of depth from bottom to top. Lines and closely spaced hatching render the bodies, rocks, and vegetation in great detail. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Fable; Fox; Hedgehog; Flies; Depiction of animals; Landscape; Ruins; Rocks; Scrub; Trees; Architecture; Hill; Sky; Clouds; Book illustration; French text; Etching; Vignette; Natural setting; Allegory; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19.6 cm x 13.1 cm (7.7 x 5.2 in), Image: 13.1 cm x 8.2 cm (5.2 x 3.2 in) Condition: In fairly good condition. The paper is yellowed and slightly stained, with visible signs of age, discoloration at the edges, and minor signs of wear; the corners and margins are slightly bumped. Overall, it is somewhat scuffed and soiled.