Original 18th century hand colored optical antique print illustrates the prospective view of the chateau de Versailles. 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 18.5" long by 14.5“ wide and weighs 3lb 6oz
Each Image measures 17.25" by 13.75"

CONDITION

In good condition with signs of foxing and aging to the paper commensurate with age, this print has a tear in the bottom center which is about 2" long (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.