662 - R. VINKELES (1741–1816), Fox, Wolf, and Horse, 1780, Etching

R. VINKELES (1741–1816), Fox, Wolf, and Horse, 1780, Etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741 Amsterdam – 1816 ibid.): Fox, Wolf, and Horse: A fable illustration featuring a fox, a wolf, and a horse set against a fortified landscape, 1780, 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 lower part, inscribed in the printing plate: “LE RENARD LE LOUP ET LE CHEVAL. / Fable CCXXX.” Date: 1780 Description: Within a framed picture area, the foreground depicts a rearing horse being pursued by a wolf and a fox. The wolf sits on the right, howling or barking, while the fox is on the left, crouched and lying in wait. In the middle ground, a path, a riverbank, and a small arched bridge are visible; behind them lies a fortified complex with a tower, a wall, and outbuildings. On the right, tall trees frame the scene. The composition combines animal action with a landscape backdrop. Delicate parallel hatching renders the sky, ground, and fur, while denser cross-hatching darkens the architecture and shadowed areas. The text strip at the bottom identifies the sheet as an illustration for a fable. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Horse; Wolf; Fox; Fable; Depiction of animals; Landscape; Castle; Tower; Bridge; Trees; Riverbank path; Attack; Illustration; Printed artwork; Hatching; French title; Vignette; Animals; Architecture; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 19.6 cm x 12.9 cm (7.7 x 5.1 in), Illustration: 13.2 cm x 8.4 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 are slightly bumped. Slight browning along the edges. A few faint mold stains are visible. Discoloration at the bottom left.