Artwork

Renard (Fox)

Renard (Fox), by Jean Eric Rehn, ink, 1745
Renard (Fox), by Jean Eric Rehn, ink, 1745

Renard (Fox) is an ink print by the Baroque artist Jean Eric Rehn. It dates from 1745 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Renard (Fox) is a print created in 1745 by Jean Eric Rehn, combining etching and engraving techniques to depict a dynamic fox in motion.

Subject & Meaning

The print portrays a fox in mid-stride, mouth agape, conveying a sense of movement and sound. The detailed, textured representation suggests a naturalistic study, emphasized by the simple, identifying title 'Renard' signed below.

Technique & Style

Rehn achieved a three-dimensional effect through expressive shading, with quick, dark lines texturing the fox's fur and rough ground. The interplay of etching and engraving techniques adds depth and visual energy to the composition.

History & Provenance

Created in 1745, specific details about the print's history and ownership prior to its current location are not provided in the available information.

Context

Renard (Fox) reflects 18th-century European interests in natural history and detailed animal studies, potentially influencing or being influenced by contemporary zoological illustrations.

Legacy

While the broader impact of Renard (Fox) on subsequent art movements is not explicitly documented here, it exemplifies the enduring appeal of etching and engraving in capturing nuanced, dynamic natural subjects.

Artist & collection

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