668 - R. VINKELES (1741–1816), The King, the Kite, and the Hunter, 1779, etching

R. VINKELES (1741–1816), The King, the Kite, and the Hunter, 1779, etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741, Amsterdam – 1816, ibid.): The King, the Kite, and the Hunter The King, the Kite, and the Hunter, a book illustration for a fable, 1779, 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 bottom, inscribed in the printing plate: “LE ROY, LE MILAN ET LE CHASSEUR. a S.A.S. Mgr le Prince de Conty. Fable CCXXV.”. Date: 1779 Description: A book illustration in the style of a copperplate engraving, depicting a dramatic scene against an architectural backdrop. A bearded gentleman, seated in antique-style robes, raises his hand in alarm while a bird of prey flutters close above his head. On the right, a hunter or soldier rushes forward with his arm outstretched; behind him stand armed companions wearing helmets and carrying lances. A mighty column and a heavily draped curtain frame the action, while in the background an archway opens up to the sky. Delicate parallel hatching renders the bodies, fabrics, and masonry. The lines of sight converge on the bird and the main figure; the print captures a moment of sudden threat. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Book illustration; etching; engraving; fable; King; Milan; Hunter; Bird of prey; Palace architecture; Column; Curtain; Soldiers; Helmet; Lance; Drastic gesture; Antiquized robes; Archway; History; French inscription; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 20.7 cm x 13.5 cm (8.1 x 5.3 in), Illustration: 13.0 cm x 8.4 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 bumped. Slight browning along the edges. A few faint mold stains are visible. The left margin of the sheet is wavy and bumped.