640 - R. VINKELES (1741–1816), A Mule in Front of a Windmill, 1769, Etching

R. VINKELES (1741–1816), A Mule in Front of a Windmill, 1769, Etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741 Amsterdam – 1816 ibid.): A mule in front of a windmill A mule carrying a load in front of a windmill, with a caption from a French fable, 1769, Etching Technique: Etching on paper Print Quality: An absolutely superb, harmonious print, with delicate, clear detail and well-balanced black levels. Inscription: Signed in the printing plate at the lower left: “Vinkeles, del. et sculp.” At the lower part, inscribed in the printing plate: “LE MULET SE VANTANT DE SA GÉNÉALOGIE Fable CX.” Date: 1769 Description: Within a rectangular frame, a laden mule is depicted in the foreground, seen in profile facing left on a path. Behind it stands a windmill with clearly defined sails; on the left, slender trees frame the scene, while on the right an outbuilding adjoins it. The landscape opens out into the distance. Delicate, even lines, dense hatching, and gradations of chiaroscuro give form to the animal’s body, the mill structure, and the foliage. The viewer’s gaze moves from the animal to the mill and on into the background. The combination of a pack animal, a mill, and a French legend suggests an emblematic or moralizing subject. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Mule; Windmill; Landscape; Path; Trees; Beast of burden; Packing; Outbuilding; Etching; Engraving; French legend; Emblem; Genre scene; Rural; Profile view; Hatching; Picture frame; 1769; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19.6 cm x 12.9 cm (7.7 x 5.1 in), Image: 13.0 cm x 8.3 cm (5.1 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.