Reinaert de vos verontschuldigt zich

About this artwork

verzamelaarsmerk, verso, gestempeld: Lugt 2228

Art Historical Context

Step into the whimsical world of 17th-century Dutch folklore with *Reinaert de vosontschuldigt zich (Reynard the Fox Excuses Himself), an etching Allaert van Everding (1621–1675). between 1665 and 1675 during the Dutch Golden Age, small gem (91 × 114 mm) captures pivotal moment from the medieval beast epic *Van den Vos Reyna*. Here, the cunning fox Reynard— a sly trickster from Low Countries tales—pleads his case before a noble animal court, likely King Noble the Lion, blending satire and moral allegory. Everdingen, renowned for his dramatic Nordic landscapes inspired by Swedish travels, showcases his versatility in printmaking with this intricate etching. The technique, involving acid-etched lines on a metal plate, allowed for expressive details in fur, gestures, and facial cunning, making fine art accessible through multiples. Part of a series illustrating Reynard's adventures, it reflects the era's fascination with fables critiquing human vices like greed and hypocrisy amid booming print culture. Bearing a collector's mark verso (Lugt 2228), this piece highlights its prized status among connoisseurs. A delightful window into Baroque-era storytelling, it invites us to chuckle at Reynard's feigned remorse while appreciating Everdingen's masterful linework.