Print Description
This hand coloured optical print shows a view of a breakfast party in the interior of the Rotunda at Ranelagh Gardens in London. The scene is filled with an air of elegance and sophistication as guests enjoy their meal amidst the stunning architecture and picturesque surroundings. The rotunda, designed by William Jones, stands tall and majestic, its arches creating a sense of grandeur. Tables are beautifully set with fine china and silverware, inviting guests to indulge in a sumptuous feast. A cozy fireplace crackles nearby, providing warmth and adding to the intimate ambiance. Both men and women can be seen engaged in lively conversations while relishing their meals. The atmosphere is one of leisurely enjoyment as people savor delicious food and drink within this enchanting setting. The intricate engravings on display throughout the rotunda’s galleries add an artistic touch to the scene. The print was designed to be viewed through special optical boxes with lenses that inverted the image and gave the sense of depth.
Made by an anonymous engraver after Huquier sons.
Medium: Engraving / hand coloured on hand laid (verge) paper.
Sheet size: 48.5 x 33 cm (19.09 x 12.99 inch). Image size: 38.5 x 27 cm. (15.16 x 10.63 inch).
Condition: good, given age. Wide margin. Brown spots left and lower margin. Smudges in corners. Creases. One tear and paper loss in lower margin restored. General age-related toning and/or occasional minor defects from handling. Please study scan carefully.
ENGLAND-LONDON-RANELAGH GARDENS-ROTUNDA-LUNCH PARTY-ARCHITECTURE | RBOS-T33-LARGE
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
This attractive print was published in Paris, ca 1750. 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.
Biography artist: Jacques Gabriel Huquier (fl. 1735-1805) was a publisher of optical prints or vues d’optiques.
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