This so called 18th century hand colored optical antique print illustrates the prospective view of the Palais Royale de Somerset. Marked No.6. Typical scenes of busy French opulence were soon to be overcast by the purge of the Terror which ensued soon after these vintage prints were made and resulted in the execution and final demise of the House of Bourbon.

Mondhare, active at rue St.Jacques a l'Hotel Saumur, was a well-known publisher of optical prints, established in Paris. In the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries there were many popular speciality establishments in Paris, Augsburg and London which produced optical viewing devices and special engravings to be viewed through them. In the 18th century the optical print or vue optique came into existence, whose exaggerated converging lines were intended to produce the optical illusion of deep recession. The viewing devices for which these perspective prints were produced consisted of a lens and a mirror, this requiring the use of reversed or mirror-image pictures.

These framed and ready to hang antique prints are stunning, difficult to find and would compliment any shabby chic cottage or grand house equally.

MEASUREMENTS

Framed vintage print measures 20" long by 14“ wide and weighs 2lb 14oz
Each Image measures 18.5" by 12.5"

CONDITION

This 18th century print is in good condition with signs of foxing and aging to the paper and creasing commensurate with age (please see all pictures as they form part of the condition description)

Shop Ref: Box No. Art Shelf

Feel free to contact me if you have any further questions about this item.