Who painted Reynard in Council with the Lion and Lioness?

Reynard in Council with the Lion and Lioness was painted by Allart van Everdingen in 1650.

Where can I see Reynard in Council with the Lion and Lioness?

Reynard in Council with the Lion and Lioness is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Reynard in Council with the Lion and Lioness?

Reynard in Council with the Lion and Lioness is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Reynard in Council with the Lion and Lioness

Allart van Everdingen , 1650

Reynard in Council with the Lion and Lioness 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

Created around 1650 by the Dutch artist Jan Everdingen, this print is an etching that illustrates a moment from the medieval fable cycle of Reynard the Fox. The composition brings together a fox, a lion and a lioness in a forest clearing, each rendered with crisp, dark lines that emphasize the narrative encounter.

Subject & Meaning

The scene portrays the cunning fox, Reynard, seated upon a rock as he addresses the lion and lioness, who appear attentive. This gathering reflects the allegorical council often depicted in the Reynard tales, where the fox negotiates with the king of beasts, highlighting themes of wit versus authority.

Technique & Style

Everdingen employed the traditional copper-plate etching process, incising fine details into the metal and then printing them with ink. The resulting lines are sharp and precise, characteristic of 17th‑century Dutch printmaking, allowing intricate foliage and animal fur to be rendered with clarity and depth.

History & Provenance

Jan Everdingen, known for both paintings and prints, worked within the Dutch Golden Age’s thriving market for narrative images. This particular etching was produced during his mature period and circulated among collectors interested in literary subjects, contributing to the broader dissemination of the Reynard legend across Europe.

Artist & collection

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.