646 - R. VINKELES (1741–1816), *The Donkey with the Relics*, 1768, etching

R. VINKELES (1741–1816), *The Donkey with the Relics*, 1768, etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741, Amsterdam – 1816, ibid.): The Donkey with the Relics The Donkey with the Relics, a group of children in a landscape, 1768, etching Technique: Etching on paper Print Quality: An absolutely superb, harmonious print, with clear lines and nuanced hatching. Inscription: Signed in the printing plate at the lower left: “Vinkeles, del. et sculp.” At the bottom of the printing plate: “L’ANE PORTANT DES RELIQUES. Fable XCVI.” Date: 1768 Description: A tall, rectangular print depicts a donkey in the center, laden with a basket and religious objects, accompanied by several children in a rural setting. On the left, two children sit on the edge of a well, while a third leans over it; on the right, a child kneels before the animal with arms raised. Trees frame the scene, while a path, hills, and buildings appear in the background. The viewer’s gaze is drawn to the donkey as the bearer of a revered load. Delicate, even lines, dense hatching, and gradations of chiaroscuro give form to the figures, foliage, and ground. The composition suggests a moralizing narrative in which devotion appears misguided. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Donkey; Children; Relics; Fable; Genre scene; Landscape; Group of trees; Fountain; Rural scene; Devotion; Beast of burden; Book illustration; Engraving; Inscription; Moral tale; Path; Building; Hilly landscape; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19.4 cm x 12.5 cm (7.6 x 4.9 in), Image: 13.1 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 show minimal wear. There is some browning along the edges. A few faint mold stains are visible.