665 - R. VINKELES (1741–1816), The Eagle and the Magpie, 1779, Etching

R. VINKELES (1741–1816), The Eagle and the Magpie, 1779, Etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741 Amsterdam – 1816 ibid.): Eagle and magpie above a river landscape, illustration from a fable, 1779, 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.” At the lower part, inscribed in the printing plate: “L’AIGLE ET LA PIE. Fable CCXXIV.” Date: 1779 Description: Within a rectangular panel frame, a riverside landscape unfolds, featuring rocks, riverside vegetation, clumps of trees, and two buildings, including a tower with a pointed spire. Above them fly two birds: on the left, a larger bird of prey with its beak open and talons outstretched; on the right, a smaller bird in evasive flight. The scene is conceived as a narrative moment set against the tranquil landscape. Delicate parallel lines give structure to the sky and water; hatching adds texture to the plumage, vegetation, and terrain. The chiaroscuro remains balanced, with the natural setting serving as a stage for the confrontation between the animals. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Eagle; Magpie; Birds; Flight; Fable; Landscape; River; Riverbank; Church; Tower; Trees; Rocks; Vegetation; Sky; Book illustration; Printed art; Title cartouche; 18th century; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 20.9 cm x 13.5 cm (8.2 x 5.3 in), Illustration: 13.0 cm x 8.5 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 are slightly bumped. Slight browning along the edges. A few faint mold stains are visible. The right-hand margin of the sheet is creased and bumped.