618 - R. VINKELES (1741–1816), Philemon and Baucis, 1781, Etching

R. VINKELES (1741–1816), Philemon and Baucis, 1781, Etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741 Amsterdam – 1816 ibid.): Philemon and Baucis: Philemon and Baucis in front of a building framed by trees, 1781, etching Technique: Etching on paper Print Quality: An absolutely superb, harmonious print with crisp lines and well-balanced black tones. Inscription: Signed in the printing plate at the lower left: “Vinkeles, del. et sculp.” At the lower part, inscribed in the printing plate: “PHILEMON ET BAUCIS. A MGR. LE DUC DE VENDOSME. Fable CCXLI.” Date: 1781 Description: A portrait-format sheet depicts, on the right, four walkers with staffs, dressed in antique-style clothing, including a female protagonist with her hand raised in a gesture of speech. The group looks to the left at a building with a flight of steps, framed by tall trees. The foreground is depicted as uneven ground with stones and vegetation; the middle ground is occupied by the figures; the background opens out onto a bright sky. Delicate parallel hatching renders the clouds, robes, and treetops; bolder lines define the areas of shadow. The figures and the background remain clearly distinct. The inscription identifies Philemon and Baucis, directing the iconographic interpretation toward the ancient fable. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Philemon and Baucis; Mythology; Fable; Wanderer; Group of figures; Staff; Landscape; Trees; Architecture; Staircase; Sky; Garment; Book illustration; Engraving; Inscription; Portrait orientation; Antiquity; Narrative scene; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19.6 cm x 13.1 cm (7.7 x 5.2 in), Image: 13.2 cm x 8.5 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.