Artwork

Reynard is Released to Tell His Story

Reynard is Released to Tell His Story, by Allart van Everdingen, ink, 1650
Reynard is Released to Tell His Story, by Allart van Everdingen, ink, 1650

Reynard is Released to Tell His Story 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

The etching 'Reynard is Released to Tell His Story' is a print by a Dutch Golden Age artist, created around 1650. It is one of several works the artist produced in the medium of etching.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a scene from the medieval narrative of Reynard the Fox, showing the trickster character standing on his hind legs, addressing an unseen audience. The image captures a moment from the story where Reynard is released to recount his version of events.

Technique & Style

The etching features dense, dark tree trunks surrounding the fox, achieved through the artist's use of the etching technique. The rough texture of the trees is conveyed through the medium's characteristic line work and shading capabilities.

Context

The work is part of a broader body of etchings and mezzotints by the artist, Allart van Everdingen, who was known for his contributions to Dutch Golden Age printmaking.

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.