Titelpagina voor: J. de La Fontaine, Fabelen, 1786 1786

This title page engraving by Dutch artist Reinier Vinkeles (1741–1816) for an edition of Jean de La Fontaine's Fables, features a simple yet elegant design. A stone pedestal, adorned with a lyre and a wreath of foliage, is situated in a sparsely rendered landscape. The empty oval at the center of the design likely served as a space for the book's title or author's name, creating a sense of anticipation and mystery. The engraving is a prime example of the 18th-century aesthetic that prioritized clarity and balance in composition. The delicate lines and careful shading highlight the beauty of the details, inviting viewers to appreciate the artistry of the design.