629 - R. VINKELES (1741–1816), *The Bear and Two Companions*, 1768, etching

R. VINKELES (1741–1816), *The Bear and Two Companions*, 1768, etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741, Amsterdam – 1816, ibid.): The Bear and Two Companions: An illustration of a fable featuring a bear, a man lying down, and a companion in a tree, 1768, etching Technique: Etching on paper Print Quality: Clear lines with a beautiful, deep black tone. Inscription: Signed in the printing plate at the lower left: “Vinkeles, del. et sculp.” At the lower part, inscribed in the printing plate: “L’OURS ET LES DEUX COMPAGNONS. Fable CII.” Date: 1768 Description: Within a framed scene, a bear attacks a man lying on the ground, while a second man takes refuge high up in a tree. The figures are wearing skimpy, non-specific clothing typical of the period; the climber’s posture appears tense and defensive. The forest is rendered through densely placed lines, delicate hatching, and gradations of chiaroscuro. A path leads into the background, adding depth to the scene. The viewer’s gaze moves from the bear, across the figure lying on the ground, to the man fleeing up the tree. The scene has a narrative quality and, through its title cartouche and plot, suggests an illustration for a moral fable. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Bear; Forest; Fable; Men; Tree; Escape; Attack; Book illustration; Title cartouche; Landscape; Depiction of an animal; Danger; Narrative scene; Engraving; Hatching; Reclining figure; Climbing figure; Moral; 18th century; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19.6 cm x 12.7 cm (7.7 x 5 in), Image: 13.1 cm x 8.2 cm (5.2 x 3.2 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.