664 - R. VINKELES (1741–1816), The Wolf and the Fox, 1779, Etching

R. VINKELES (1741–1816), The Wolf and the Fox, 1779, Etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741, Amsterdam – 1816, ibid.): The Wolf and the Fox (Le Loup et le Renard), Fable CCXXII, Plate 2, 1779, Etching Technique: Etching on paper Print Quality: An absolutely superb, harmonious print with crisp lines and well-balanced black tones. Inscription: Signed in the lower left of the printing plate: “Vinkeles, del. et sculp.” At the bottom of the printing plate: “LE LOUP ET LE RENARD. Fable CCXXII. 2e Planche.” Date: 1779 Description: A framed rectangular print depicting a landscape scene. In the foreground, two animals lie on the bank; on the right, a fox-like animal is leaning over a killed chicken, while on the left, a wolf- or dog-like animal is resting on the ground. Feathers, tufts of grass, and a simple fence create a sense of depth in the foreground. Behind them, calm water stretches out; on the right bank stand trees and a house with a tall chimney. In the background, rocks and mountains rise up. The sky is filled with moving clouds. Delicate, parallel lines and dense hatching convey light, texture, and depth of space. The caption suggests that the scene depicts a fable. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Fable; Wolf; Fox; Chicken; Landscape; Shore; House; Mountains; Clouds; Fence; Animals; Printed art; Illustration; French caption; Feathers; Hunted prey; Natural environment; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 20.8 cm x 13.0 cm (8.2 x 5.1 in), Image: 13.1 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. There is some browning along the edges. A few faint mold stains are visible. The left margin of the sheet is creased and slightly bumped.