A French Print Depicting "Nemesis" In Italian Frame With Mirrors

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We kindly invite you to read the entire description, as we strive to provide you with detailed technical and historical … Read more We kindly invite you to read the entire description, as we strive to provide you with detailed technical and historical information to ensure the authenticity of our objects.
The wooden frame enclosing the print is very special and unusual; it was recently made by a master cabinetmaker whose workshop is located in the "coolest" neighborhood of Florence: San Frediano, known for the fascinating and unique "workshops" of artisans who still create with their own hands. The master craftsman inserted four shiny mirrors on the sides of the flat part of the frame, tilting them outward, while painting the outer part and the inner edge with gold, creating a very bright, elegant, and sophisticated optical effect. The print is enclosed within the frame by a fine black passepartout with gold edging. The print, which is paperwork and not a book page, was executed in Paris between 1888 and 1889 by skilled draughtsmen and engravers exclusively for the Librairie Emile Bouillon (as indicated on the print itself). This bookstore-publisher was at 67 Rue de Richelieu, Paris (2nd arrondissement). The bookstore was opened in 1888 by Emile Bouillon, who owned it throughout its operation. It specialized in scientific and literary publications. The Emile Bouillon bookstore was known for publishing works with high-quality illustrations and engravings. It often collaborated with well-known illustrators and engravers of the time to create exclusive prints. This was common among bookstores of the period, which often commissioned artists to create specific illustrations for their books, making them unique and highly collectible pieces; this was a common practice among high-profile publishers such as Bouillon.
Nemesis is a term that originates from Greek mythology. The word comes from the ancient Greek "Νέμεσις" (Némesis), meaning "distribution of justice" or "divine vengeance." In this tradition, Nemesis was the goddess of vengeance, punishing excesses and restoring balance. Our print depicts the goddess Nemesis with a cornucopia, a very rare iconography rich in meaning. In the hands of Nemesis the cornucopia, generally a symbol of abundance and prosperity, could symbolize the equitable distribution of fortunes and the balance between punishment and reward. The figure of Nemesis is depicted in classical robes, typical of representations of Greek deities, and an elegant posture that suggests authority and serenity. This depiction may be influenced by Roman iconography, where deities were often depicted with various attributes to emphasize different aspects of their powers. The design appears to have a neoclassical style, typical of the 19th century when there was a rediscovery of classical art and mythology. This period often sought to combine different elements to create ideal representations of deities. The cornucopia in Nemesis' hand may also represent the fruit of justice. In other words, a balanced and just society brings prosperity and abundance. In this case, Nemesis is not only a goddess of vengeance but also a protector of order that, when maintained, benefits all. The presence of the cornucopia can balance the idea of punishment with that of reward. Nemesis ensures that justice is done in such a way that virtue is rewarded and guilt punished. The image of Nemesis with a cornucopia is a rare and interesting interpretation, making our print a unique piece that has considerable historical value and, at the same time, an inimitable and sought-after piece of decor. The print and frame are in good condition. Measurements: width 30 cm, height 40 cm, depth 3 cm. We use special packaging materials (wooden crates, styrofoam, etc.) for all our shipments to ensure maximum protection and safety of the items. See less