Artwork

Reynard and the Crows

Reynard and the Crows, by Allart van Everdingen, ink, 1650
Reynard and the Crows, by Allart van Everdingen, ink, 1650

Reynard and the Crows is an ink print by the Baroque artist Allart van Everdingen. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Reynard and the Crows is an etching created by Dutch Golden Age artist Allart van Everdingen around 1650, exemplifying his printmaking practice.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a serene fox on its hind legs, unperturbed by crows pecking at its tail, conveying a sense of playful, teasing interaction rather than fear or aggression. While foxes often symbolized cunning in folklore, this scene emphasizes comedic absurdity.

Technique & Style

Everdingen employed fine, detailed lines to render the textures of the fox's fur and the crows' feathers. A plain background frames the scene, lending it a staged, theatrical quality.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1650, the etching is part of Everdingen's established body of printmaking work from the mid-17th century. Specific provenance details are not provided.

Context

This work reflects the Dutch Golden Age's flourishing print culture, where artists like Everdingen could explore both serious and lighthearted themes through etching.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Allart van Everdingen

Artist

Allart van Everdingen

Allaert van Everdingen (Dutch pronunciation: ; bapt. 18 June 1621 – 8 November 1675 (buried)), was a Dutch Golden Age painter and printmaker in etching and mezzotint.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.