628 - R. VINKELES (1741–1816), A Donkey in a Lion’s Skin, 1768, Etching

R. VINKELES (1741–1816), A Donkey in a Lion’s Skin, 1768, Etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741 Amsterdam – 1816 ibid.): A Donkey in a Lion’s Skin: The donkey in a lion’s skin with a dog attacking it, set against a backdrop of a castle and mountainous landscape, 1768, 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 bottom of the printing plate: “L’ANE VÊTU DE LA PEAU DU LION. Fable CIII.” Date: 1768 Description: Within the plate mark of a rectangular panel, the foreground of the sheet depicts a striding donkey whose coat or covering appears lion-like. On the right, a dog grabs the animal by the tail, exposing the disguise. In the middle ground stand a tower-like gateway, a bridge, and a house; behind them rises a rocky mountain. The composition clearly layers the group of figures, the architecture, and the landscape into the depth of the picture. Delicate parallel and cross-hatching renders the bodies, masonry, and terrain. The bright, largely open sky contrasts with the darker areas depicting the animals. The depiction has a narrative quality and, through the caption, alludes to a moralizing fable. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Donkey; Dog; Lion’s Skin; Fable; Animals; Unmasking; Landscape; Castle; Gatehouse; Bridge; House; Mountain; Etching; Book Illustration; Hatching; Narration; Moral; French text; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19.6 cm x 11.8 cm (7.7 x 4.6 in), Illustration: 13.3 cm x 8.3 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 are slightly bumped. There is some browning along the edges. A few faint mold stains are visible. The right-hand margin of the sheet is slightly creased and soiled.