Artwork
Reynard's Relatives Plead for Him
Reynard's Relatives Plead for Him 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 circa 1650, this etching by Allart van Everdingen presents a gathering of forest animals surrounding a recumbent fox.
Created circa 1650, this etching by Allart van Everdingen presents a gathering of forest animals surrounding a recumbent fox. The composition is set within a stark woodland, where bare trunks and a litter of rocks and grass form the backdrop. The fox occupies the central position, while a wolf, cat, leopard and lion lean in, their gazes directed toward the creature, suggesting a moment of supplication.
Subject & Meaning
The image draws on the medieval Reynard the Fox narrative, a series of fables in which the cunning fox often faces judicial scrutiny. Here the fox’s kin—represented by various predatory mammals—appear to intercede on his behalf, evoking themes of loyalty, advocacy, and the moral complexities embedded in the tale’s courtroom scenes.
Technique & Style
Executed with the etching process, Everdingen employed delicate, incised lines to render the texture of fur, bark and foliage. The fine cross‑hatching creates tonal variation, especially in the animal pelage and the surrounding leaves, while the stark contrast between dark outlines and lighter areas enhances the sense of depth within the wooded setting.
History & Provenance
Allart van Everdingen, known primarily for his landscape paintings, also produced a modest body of prints during the mid‑17th century, aligning with the broader Dutch Golden Age printmaking tradition. This particular work, dated around 1650, reflects his engagement with literary subjects and has been documented in several European collections of Dutch prints.
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Artist & collection
Artist
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.
Reynard the Fox: The Relatives of Reynard Leave Court
Reynard Attempts to Clear Himself
Reynard the Fox: Reynard Appears at Court
Reynard Asks Permission to Speak
Reynard the Fox: Reynard Exonerates Himself
Reynard is Released to Tell His Story
Reynard Accused
Reynard the Fox: Reynard Asks Permission to Confess
Reynard the Fox: The Pardon of Reynard
Reynard Promises to Reveal the Hidden Treasure
Reynard the Fox: Lion Orders Search for Reynard