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The Fool Who Sold Wisdom (Collection 2, Book 9, fable 8) -engraving from "A Hundred Fables of La Fontaine"Illustrated by Percy J. Billinghurst (1871-1933) - 1899
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The Fool Who Sold Wisdom (Collection 2, Book 9, fable 8) -engraving from "A Hundred Fables of La Fontaine"Illustrated by Percy J. Billinghurst (1871-1933) - 1899
XEE4161886 The Fool Who Sold Wisdom (Collection 2, Book 9, fable 8) -engraving from " A Hundred Fables of La Fontaine" Illustrated by Percy J. Billinghurst (1871-1933) - 1899 - by Billinghurst, Percy James (1871-1933); Private Collection; (add.info.: The Fool Who Sold Wisdom (Collection 2, Book 9, fable 8) -engraving from " A Hundred Fables of La Fontaine" Illustrated by Percy J. Billinghurst (1871-1933) - 1899 -); Stefano Bianchetti
Media ID 25183110
© Stefano Bianchetti / Bridgeman Images
Clown Fable Fair John Of 1621 1695 La Fontaine Artwork La Fontaine Personality Lafontaine Artwork Madness Seicento Travelling Merchant Wisdom 17 17th 17th 17th Xvii 18th Century Circa 1600 Early 17th Century Early Xvii Century Merchant Seventeeth Century
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This engraving from "A Hundred Fables of La Fontaine" by Percy J. Billinghurst transports us into the world of French literature and wisdom. The artwork, created in 1899, beautifully illustrates "The Fool Who Sold Wisdom" a fable found in Collection 2, Book 9. In this scene, we see a travelling merchant surrounded by a curious crowd. Dressed as a clown, he holds up his wares - wisdom for sale. The irony is palpable as the fool attempts to sell something that cannot be bought or sold. Billinghurst's intricate lines and attention to detail bring this fable to life. The expressions on the faces of both the merchant and the crowd convey a sense of intrigue mixed with skepticism. As we gaze upon this black-and-white masterpiece, we are reminded of Jean de La Fontaine's timeless tales that continue to captivate readers centuries later. Through his poetry and storytelling prowess, La Fontaine imparts valuable lessons about human nature and folly. This engraving serves as an invitation to delve deeper into La Fontaine's work and explore the complexities of wisdom and commerce through artistry. It reminds us that true wisdom cannot be purchased but must be sought through experience and reflection. Stefano Bianchetti's preservation of this piece allows us to appreciate not only Billinghurst's skill but also the enduring power of literature in shaping our understanding of ourselves and others throughout history.
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