Antique Mythology Print-CASTOR-POLLUX-OVID-Picart-1733

Original etching and engraving combination on a verge type hand laid paper. 100% original and authentic. on paper.

Size in cm: The overall size is ca. 31.5 x 49 cm. The image size is ca. 26 x 35 cm. Size in inch: The overall size is ca. 12.4 x 19.3 inch. The image size is ca. 10.2 x 13.8 inch.

Plate: ‘ The Dioscuri, or Castor and Pollux, the Guardians of Mariners.’ (Plate is accompanied by text in French, English, German and Dutch under image.) The Dioscuri (Castor and Pollux, or the Twins) were the semi-divine children of Zeus and Leda. Among their adventures Castor and Pollux joined Jason and the Argonauts on their seafaring expedition. During a violent storm Orpheus summoned the gods for their aid. Two flames descended from above and hovered over the heads of the Dioscuri. This was the origin of Saint Elmo’s Fire which today is the symbol to mariners for the end of a storm. This attractive original old antique print / plate originates from: ‘Tafereel, of Beschryving van den prachtigen Tempel der Zang-Godinnen.’ (Translation from Dutch: Scene or description of the magnificent temple of singing godesses.), by Bernard Picart Le Romain and published by H. Chatelain in Amsterdam, 1733. This is the first edition of this beautiful work, which took three years to complete, is a highlight of 18th century Dutch book illustration. The work consists of 60 full-page folio size plates within different ornamental borders, illustrating the Metamorphoses by Ovidius. Artists and Engravers: The author and engraver of this work is Bernard Picart (1673-1733). He was a French painter and engraver. He received his art education from his father, Etienne (1632-1721), from Le Brun and Jouvenet at the Royal Academy. His talents developed rapidly: at the age of sixteen he gained honors at the Academy of Paris.He was born in Paris and died in Amsterdam. Other engravers worked on this work as well.

Condition: Fine. General age related toning.

Keywords: ANTIQUE MYTHOLOGY PRINT-CASTOR-POLLUX-OVID-PICART

PCOX-E3-31