Het nut van de wetenschap 1773

This engraving, "Het nut van de wetenschap" (The Usefulness of Science), was created in 1773 by Dutch artist Reinier Vinkeles. The piece depicts two figures in an idyllic garden setting. It was likely created for an edition of Jean de la Fontaine’s fables, given the French title, "L'avantage de la science. Fable CLXI," at the bottom. The figures, likely representing the subjects of the fable, are situated in a garden with a classical structure, emphasizing the value of knowledge and reason. The engraving's delicate lines and detailed composition reflect the artistic style of the late 18th century.