Antique Optical Print – CLASSICAL GARDENS-ST. PETERSBURG [Anomymous, c.1780]

‘Prospectus Horti Delicianim Axariami.’

By: Anonymous.

Source:

Etching / engraving on hand laid paper (verge). The print is illuminated by small holes and figures which are punched through the paper. At the back of the print we see that the holes are covered with see-through paper. Some of the holes are coated with yellow, pink, green and red paint. This gives the illusion of coloured lights when the print is held in front of a light source.

This is an optical print, also called ‘vue optique’ or ‘vue d’optique’, which were made to be viewed through a Zograscope, or other devices of convex lens and mirrors, all of which produced an optical illusion of depth.

Watermark:

Sheet: c. 42.5 x 31 cm

Image: c. 39.5 x 28 cm

Condition:

We have not fully described this item yet. For additional information please enquire.

PCO-A12-01