651 - R. VINKELES (1741–1816), *The Mountain That Gives Birth*, 1767, Etching

R. VINKELES (1741–1816), *The Mountain That Gives Birth*, 1767, Etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741, Amsterdam – 1816, ibid.): The Mountain That Gives Birth *La Montagne qui accouche*, a fable scene set in a rocky landscape with figures, 1767, etching Technique: Etching on paper Print Quality: An absolutely superb, harmonious print with crisp lines and well-balanced black tones. Inscription: Signed in the printing plate at the lower left: “Vinkeles, del. et sculp.” At the bottom, inscribed in the printing plate: “LA MONTAGNE QUI ACCOUCHE. Fable XCIII.” Date: 1767 Description: A rocky landscape featuring a narrow footbridge and a steep mountainside is set within a portrait-format picture area. In the foreground, rocks, scrub, and a wooden footbridge are arranged in tiers. In the lower right-hand corner, two female figures in long robes are seated; a standing man is approaching them with an outstretched gesture. On the hill behind them, two small figures are running away from each other in agitation. A small animal emerges from a crevice in the rock, presumably as the punchline of the scene. Delicate parallel lines, hatching, and dense cross-hatching render the rocks, vegetation, and sky. The contrast between the small figures and the imposing natural surroundings heightens the narrative contrast of the fable. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Fable; Mountain landscape; Rocks; Footbridge; Figurative decoration; Female figures; Male figure; Small animal; Crevasse; Vegetation; Hill; Narrative scene; Book illustration; French inscription; Etching; Copperplate style; Landscape; Portrait orientation; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19.5 cm x 12.9 cm (7.7 x 5.1 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.