614 - R. VINKELES (1741–1816), *The Sun and the Frogs*, 1781, etching

R. VINKELES (1741–1816), *The Sun and the Frogs*, 1781, etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741 Amsterdam – 1816 ibid.): The Sun and the Frogs (Le Soleil et les Grenouilles), Fable CCLXXXVII, depicting a pond landscape and a view of the village, 1781, etching Technique: Etching on paper Print Quality: An absolutely superb, harmonious print with crisp, well-defined lines and a well-balanced black tone. Inscription: Signed in the lower left corner of the printing plate: "Vinkeles, del. et sculp.". At the bottom, inscribed on the printing plate: "LE SOLEIL ET LES GRENOUILLES. Fable CCLXXXVII.". Date: 1781 Description: Within a rectangular frame, the sheet depicts a pond landscape with reeds, several frogs, and calm water in the foreground. Behind this rise a wall, gabled houses, and a tower-like gate. Dark clouds are gathering in the sky; on the right, they part to reveal rays of sunlight. The composition clearly distinguishes between the foreground, middle ground, and background. Delicate parallel lines and dense hatching give form to the clouds, vegetation, and architecture; lighter areas are left unfilled. There are no human-like figures. The juxtaposition of frogs and the sun alludes to a moralizing fable in which the observation of nature and symbolism are intertwined. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Fable; Frogs; Sun; Pond; Reeds; Water; Clouds; Rays; Village view; Architecture; Wall; Gatehouse; Landscape; Book illustration; Etching; Engraving; Depiction of animals; Allegory; 18th century; Vignette; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19.5 cm x 13.2 cm (7.7 x 5.2 in), Image: 12.9 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 sheets are slightly bumped. Slight browning along the edges. A few faint mold stains are visible. Discoloration at the bottom left.