Original hand-coloured engraved print, published by Basset one of the most successful businesses in this field. They traded from 1720 to 1865 and were located at Number 64, Rue Saint-Jacques, Paris.
Known as a peepshow print or optical view they were popular in the 1700s and involved a technique to produce an image that could be viewed through a special lens or mirror, creating the illusion of depth and perspective. Basset's popular prints were not made to be admired as objects d'art: although there is no doubt about the skill of the engraver. Roughly coloured, the very popularity of these prints ensured that many were destroyed or lost after their usefulness expired.
This print is titled Hotel de Ville de Gand, now known as the City Hall of Ghent in Belgium. The engraving, circa 1750 is printed on eighteenth century hand-made, laid paper and with full margins as published. Look closely to see a clown and musical show, a cups and balls performance, a woman at a window and another with her head turned looking straight back at you!
There is a small L shaped tear in the paper situated above the triangular steps, see close up photograph.
The print is placed in a contemporary frame.
SKU: 553 - UK delivery included in price.
Length of engraving: 48cm
Width of engraving: 31cm
Weight of framed print: 850gm