670 - R. VINKELES (1741–1816), The Wolf and the Fox, 1778, Etching

R. VINKELES (1741–1816), The Wolf and the Fox, 1778, Etching Reinier Vinkeles (1741, Amsterdam – 1816, ibid.): The Wolf and the Fox The Wolf and the Fox, a scene from a fable featuring a shepherd, a flock, and a village in the background, 1778, etching Technique: Etching on paper Print Quality: A clear, well-defined print with delicate line detail and balanced black tones. Inscription: Signed in the printing plate at the lower left: “Vinkeles, del. et sculp.” At the lower part, inscribed in the printing plate: “LE LOUP ET LE RENARD. Fable CCXXII.” Date: 1778 Description: Within a rectangular frame, a rural scene is depicted, with two predators in the foreground—presumably a wolf and a fox—alongside several sheep on an uphill path. A shepherd in a short tunic is driving the flock uphill, gesturing with outstretched arms. In the middle ground, bushes and trees form a dense transition to a complex of buildings featuring a tower and the remains of a wall. The sky is vast and cloudy, rendered in delicate horizontal lines. The print employs a dense system of lines, hatching, and chiaroscuro modeling; the dark bodies of the animals contrast with the lighter terrain. The narrative climax lies in the menacing juxtaposition of the flock and the predators. Source: Jean de la Fontaine (1621–1695) *Fables choisies*, 1802 | Book, Mythology, Genre, Fashion Keywords: Wolf; Fox; Sheep; Shepherd; Flock; Fable; Landscape; Tower; Village; Trees; Predators; Book illustration; Engraving; Title cartouche; French text; Path; Cloudy sky; Depiction of animals; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 20.8 cm x 13.4 cm (8.2 x 5.3 in), Illustration: 13.0 cm x 8.3 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 left margin of the sheet is wavy and bumped.