638 - R. VINKELES (1741–1816), The Old Man and the Donkey, 1769, etching

R. VINKELES (1741–1816), The Old Man and the Donkey, 1769, etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741, Amsterdam – 1816, ibid.): The Old Man and the Donkey The Old Man and the Donkey, a fable scene set in a landscape with a group of figures in the background, 1769, etching Technique: Etching on paper Print Quality: An absolutely superb, harmonious print with delicate, clearly defined lines. Inscription: Signed in the printing plate at the lower left: “Vinkeles, del. et sculp.” At the lower part, inscribed in the printing plate: “LE VIEILLARD ET L’ANE. Fable CXI.” Date: 1769 Description: Within a rectangular frame, the sheet depicts an old man standing beside a laden donkey in a hilly landscape. The man is wearing a long robe, a belt, and a headdress; with his arm outstretched, he points to the right toward a small group of figures carrying a standard on an ascending path. The donkey strides forward, turning its head slightly backward. Trees and clouds create a sense of depth, while delicate hatching renders the ground, the donkey’s coat, the man’s robe, and the foliage. Lighter areas in the sky and on the figures contrast with denser, darker zones in the foreground. The scene has a narrative quality and, through the caption, alludes to a fable. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: old man; donkey; fable; landscape; group of figures; banner; path; trees; hill; garment; headdress; narrative scene; book illustration; French caption; hatching; framing; frontispiece-like; depiction of an animal; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19.5 cm x 12.2 cm (7.7 x 4.8 in), Illustration: 13.1 cm x 8.1 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. Slight browning along the edges. A few faint mold stains are visible.