Don Balke (North Carolina, B. 1933) "Red Fox" Signed lower left. Original Watercolor on Illustration Board.
Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation.
This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood commemorative cover for Balke's Baby Wildlife of the 50 States, postmarked August 10, 1984.
Deep in the woodlands of Missouri, four playful Red Fox cubs linger in the evening mist. Born but a month ago, they have spent their first days in the safety of their "earth," a cavity in the ground -- closely guarded by their mother. Their father -- called a dog -- spends much of his time supplying food for the nursing mother. Once these carefully tended pups are weaned, he will bring food for them, too. Frolicking with their parents, the young cubs enjoy their first adventures in the world. The babies are treated to the playful antics of their father who thrives on his role of playmate, even more than their mother, the vixen. Indeed, even as adults, Red Foxes are known for their playfulness. Bounding about, bucking, somersaulting and chasing their tails, they are truly the clowns of the forest. But all of this takes coordination and, being the good parents that they are, the dog and the vixen play games with their young games that will help them develop. For example, when the dog returns with food, the cubs must take it from his mouth -- not an easy trick as the young foxes must jump to reach it. The parents make it even harder by moving their heads from side to side. It all seems to be a game ... as the four cubs jump, bump and tumble about. But they are also exercising their muscles, learning coordinate movements and sharpening senses that they will need later for survival.
Image Size: 11 x 12.75 in.
Overall Size: 18.25 x 20 in.
Unframed.
(B08940)
Condition
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