Reproduction Antique Victorian Gem and Mineral Print No. 2

Description

These gem and mineral prints were originally painted in 1789 by self taught artist François Louis Fontaines. The series shows … more These gem and mineral prints were originally painted in 1789 by self taught artist François Louis Fontaines. The series shows a cabinet-of-curiosities-style inset box that houses individual mineral specimens of various varieties. Shavings from the actual minerals were mixed into his pigments to enhance the colors of his watercolors. Elaborately drawn ornate borders surround the specimens lending an extra level of antique decoration.

Fontaines intended them as a large volume but the project was not completed due to the French Revolution. There are no records of his work after the revolution.

See its companion in my shop. Note: This is an illustrated print, not an actual box and it is unframed.

Restored and printed on 100% cotton fine art watercolor paper. less