654 - R. VINKELES (1741–1816), *The Scythian Philosopher*, 1769, etching

R. VINKELES (1741–1816), *The Scythian Philosopher*, 1769, etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741, Amsterdam – 1816, ibid.): The Scythian Philosopher (Le Philosophe Scythe), a fable scene featuring two men by a tree, 1769, etching Technique: Etching on paper Print Quality: An absolutely superb, harmonious print with crisp, well-defined lines and a well-balanced black tone. Inscription: Signed in the printing plate at the lower left: “Vinkeles, del. et sculp.”; inscribed in the printing plate at the bottom: “LE PHILOSOPHE SCYTHE. Fable CCXXXIII.” Date: 1769 Description: Within a rectangularly framed image, two male figures stand in a landscape beside a young tree. On the left, a man wearing a turban-like headdress and carrying a stick points to the crown; on the right, an older man with a small pruning tool leans over the trunk and prepares to prune it. Behind them are shrubs, a river or canal, an arched bridge, and buildings with tower-like features. The composition clearly distinguishes between the foreground, middle ground, and architectural backdrop. Delicate parallel hatching renders the sky, the folds in the garments, and the vegetation. The scene possesses narrative intensity; the gestures and direction of gaze converge on the tree as a symbol of care, intervention, and instruction. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Fable; Philosopher’s Scythe; two men; tree; pruning; landscape; bridge; building; tower; river; stick; tool; gesture; instruction; book illustration; print; French caption; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 20.7 cm x 13.0 cm (8.1 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 water stains are visible. The top right-hand corner of the sheet is missing.