This is a very rare copperplate engraving on hand laid paper by P.J. Mariette after a drawing by Jean Le Pautre.  Published in Paris in 1752, these engravings are called landscape/portrait panels and they depicted highly decorative architectural details with cherubs, satyrs, nymphs, etc. as well as scrollwork and acanthus leaves.

Jean Le Pautre was born in Paris in 1617 and died in 1682.  In the early part of his life he was placed with a carpenter and builder under whom he learned to draw plans and ornamental designs.  He afterwards turned his attention to engraving and focused on architectural decorations, friezes, ceilings, vases and other ornaments.  He was also one of the principal architects of the French Rococo Movement and like his elder relation, Antoine, his work was much revered by the King of France.

Pierre Jean Mariette was the son of eminent French engraver and print seller, Jean Mariette, from whom he inherited an extensive collection of prints.  His private collection of prints, from which this one came, was sold in Paris in 1775.

Size and Condition

This print is meticulously engraved with elaborate architectural and decorative detailing.  The interior scene is of a doorway with beautiful side walls and panals. This engraving shows the door open and many people appearing to be waiting to pass through the entrance.  Condition is fine and the paper is a lovely creamy white color with the engraving very crisp.  The paper size is approximately 8 ¾” x 13” and the image size is approximately 5 ¾” x 8 ½”.

Shipping

Will combine shipping at no additional charge if additonal prints are purchased.

About the Print Dealer

This item is from the inventory of a second generation antique print dealer who literally grew up in the business.  The parents of this dealer bought and sold rare prints, manuscripts and antique books for over 50 years.  This highly knowledgeable dealer has continued the family tradition by buying and selling fine quality prints, maps and books and now for the first time is offering items on Ebay from an extensive inventory.  All items offered for sale are original!

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