18th Century Hand Colored Engraving of the Royal Palace in Prague, Framed

Description

Circa 18th century Vue de la Place Thien. (Signed iOS Carmine). "Wien" Augsberg. Published for the "Collection des Prospects" (Prospects … more Circa 18th century Vue de la Place Thien. (Signed iOS Carmine). "Wien" Augsberg. Published for the "Collection des Prospects" (Prospects Collection) in Augsberg, around 1770. Uncommon large example. Copperplate engraving, image measures approximately 15 1/2" x 12 1/2" in frame under glass. Framed measures approximately 23 1/2" x 19" Hand-colored, by watercolor, at time of publication. These kinds of perspective views (vues d'optique) were extremely popular in Europe in the second half of the 18th century. Publishers would use a zograscope, a device with a lens and mirror, to give an illusion of depth to hand colored engravings.These prints, were very popular in Paris, Augsberg and London, for they were used in optical viewing devices to produce the optical illusion of some degree of tridimensionality. In great period condition, please see all photos as to condition. A rare example. Wonderful vibrant colors.

I bought this at auction. I love the vibrant hand-coloring and enchanting city scene. Although it was professionally framed, it appears that someone repainted the original frame. It’s an easy fix to swap out for a new frame. Glass has some paint drops on it also. less