Who painted Reynard the Fox: First Complaint of the Wolf?

Reynard the Fox: First Complaint of the Wolf was painted by Allart van Everdingen in 1662.

Where can I see Reynard the Fox: First Complaint of the Wolf?

Reynard the Fox: First Complaint of the Wolf is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Reynard the Fox: First Complaint of the Wolf?

Reynard the Fox: First Complaint of the Wolf is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of Reynard the Fox: First Complaint of the Wolf?

Museum-quality prints of Reynard the Fox: First Complaint of the Wolf are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Reynard the Fox: First Complaint of the Wolf

Allart van Everdingen , 1662

Reynard the Fox: First Complaint of the Wolf is a print by the Baroque artist Allart van Everdingen. It dates from 1662 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.: 1982.179.3
Credit line: Gift of Ellen V. Kloppman in memory of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Vixseboxse

About this work

This painting shows a scene with animals, including a fox and a wolf. The fox is talking to other animals, and they seem to be discussing something. This scene is based on a medieval story, which was popular in Europe at the time.

You can learn more about this style by looking at the work of the artist: Allart van Everdingen (Dutch, 1621–1675)

Overview

Reynard the Fox: First Complaint of the Wolf is a 1662 etching by Dutch Golden Age artist Allart van Everdingen, depicting a scene from the medieval fable of Reynard the Fox.

Subject & Meaning

The etching illustrates the wolf’s initial complaint against the cunning fox, showcasing a moment of interaction among anthropomorphic animals, likely conveying themes of deception and justice present in the fable.

Technique & Style

Executed in etching, the work exemplifies Van Everdingen’s skill in this medium, characteristic of Dutch Golden Age printmaking. The composition features a gathering of animals, with the fox centrally engaged in discourse, reflecting the artist’s ability to narrate through detailed, expressive prints.

History & Provenance

Created in 1662 by Allart van Everdingen (1621–1675), the etching is part of the broader artistic output of the Dutch Golden Age, a 17th-century period renowned for its prolific and influential cultural productions.

Context

The work draws on a popular European medieval fable, adapting its narrative for a 17th-century Dutch audience, highlighting the enduring appeal of Reynard the Fox stories across time and regions.

Reynard the Fox: The Animals Complain of Reynard's Pardon, Allart van Everdingen

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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.