623 - R. VINKELES (1741–1816), Couple in the Park by an Ornamental Vase, 1781, Etching

R. VINKELES (1741–1816), Couple in the Park by an Ornamental Vase, 1781, Etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741 Amsterdam – 1816 ibid.): Couple in the Park by an Ornamental Vase: A gallant couple in a park setting next to a monumental ornamental vase, book illustration, 1781, etching Technique: Etching on paper Print Quality: An absolutely superb, well-balanced print. Inscription: Signed on the support in the lower left: “Vinkeles, del. et sculp.” At the bottom, inscribed on the printing plate: “BELFEGOR. Fable CCXLIV. 2.e Planche.” Date: 1781 Description: Within a rectangular frame, set against a park-like landscape, an 18th-century couple stands beside a tall pedestal bearing a large ornamental vase. On the left is a woman in a full-skirted dress with an apron and a bonnet; her upper body is turned slightly, with one hand resting on her chest. On the right, a man wearing a hat, jacket, knee-length trousers, and stockings leans casually against the pedestal. Heavy tree branches spread out above them; behind them, the space opens up into a sparse copse. Delicate, regular hatching gives form to the figures, foliage, and stone. The visual connection between the two conveys a gallant, genre-like, narrative situation without a clearly discernible plot. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Woman; Man; Couple; Park; Garden vase; Pedestal; Tree; Landscape; Rococo clothing; Knee-length trousers; Dress; Bonnet; Fancy accessories; Encounter; Staffage; Engraving; Book illustration; 18th century; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19.5 cm x 13.3 cm (7.7 x 5.2 in), Image: 13.0 cm x 8.4 cm (5.1 x 3.3 in) Condition: Good condition. Significant aging of the paper, slightly browned and with foxing; creases along the edges, minor wear and scuffs along the edges; on the right, a missing section or small tear in the edge of the page; overall, showing signs of wear and light soiling.