607 - R. VINKELES (1741–1816), *The Sick Stag*, 1778, etching

R. VINKELES (1741–1816), *The Sick Stag*, 1778, etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741, Amsterdam – 1816, ibid.): The Sick Stag The Sick Stag in a wooded landscape, illustration for a fable, 1778, Etching Technique: Etching on paper Print Quality: An absolutely superb, harmonious print, with delicate, clear lines. Inscription: Signed in the printing plate at the lower left: “Vinkeles, del. et sculp.” At the lower part, inscribed in the printing plate: “LE CERF MALADE. Fable CCXIX.” Date: 1778 Description: A wooded landscape unfolds within a rectangular frame. In the foreground, a stag with sweeping antlers lies exhausted on the ground; its head and gaze are turned to one side, suggesting illness or weakness. To the right and in the middle ground, other stags stand among tree trunks and the light sections of a forest path. Tall, irregularly growing trees frame the scene and draw the eye into the depth of the picture. Delicate, dense parallel and cross-hatching render the foliage, ground, and sky. The contrast between the dark foreground and the light background enhances the sense of depth. The signature indicates that this is a depiction from a fable. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Deer; Deer; Forest; Landscape; Fable; Depiction of an animal; Group of trees; Antlers; Tranquility; Illness; Natural setting; Book illustration; Border; Hatching; Title cartouche; Animal illustration; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19.7 cm x 12.8 cm (7.8 x 5 in), Illustration: 13.0 cm x 8.3 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 sheets are slightly bumped. There is some browning along the edges. A few faint mold stains are visible. Slightly discolored at the bottom left.