669 - R. VINKELES (1741–1816), The King, the Kite, and the Hunter, Plate 2, 1779, Etching

R. VINKELES (1741–1816), The King, the Kite, and the Hunter, Plate 2, 1779, Etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741 Amsterdam – 1816 ibid.): The King, the Kite, and the Hunter, Plate 2. The King on the throne with the Kite and the Hunter, illustration for Fable CCXXV, 1779, etching Technique: Etching on paper Print Quality: An absolutely superb, harmonious print with crisp 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 ROY, LE MILAN ET LE CHASSEUR / Fable CCXXV. 2e Planche.” Date: 1779 Description: In a palatial interior scene, a crowned ruler sits on a raised throne beneath a heavy curtain. Before him, several figures in antique-style robes are huddled together; a hunter raises a long spear, while another person holds aloft a bird of prey or a kite. The king points toward the action with his arm outstretched. Stairs, a column, and drapery frame the scene and create a sense of depth. Dense parallel and cross-hatching render the robes, architecture, and areas of shadow. The composition culminates in the conflict between the ruler, the bird, and the hunter, and, through the accompanying inscription, alludes to a moralizing fable. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: King; Throne; Milan; Bird of prey; Hunter; Spear; Court scene; Fable; Interior; Column; Drapery; Steps; Crown; Entourage; Engraving; Book illustration; Moral scene; French inscription; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 20.8 cm x 13.6 cm (8.2 x 5.4 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. The left margin of the sheet is wavy and bumped.