Laborde, Denislou Views of the Ruins of Laodicea and the Theatre, Asia Minor, Print

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Denislou – Views of the Ruins of Laodicea and the Theatre, Asia Minor by Laborde, circa 1840 This large-format lithograph … Read more Denislou – Views of the Ruins of Laodicea and the Theatre, Asia Minor by Laborde, circa 1840 This large-format lithograph features two stunning 19th-century views of the ruins of Laodicea (near modern-day Denizli, Turkey), titled Denislou, drawn by the renowned French archaeologist and traveler Louis de Laborde. Executed in warm sepia tones and lithographed by Freeman, this print captures the vast and romantic landscape of Asia Minor dotted with classical ruins and distant mountain ranges. The upper view is labeled *Vue des Ruines de Laodicée dans le fond la plaine du Méandre et la ville d’Héraclée*. It presents the remains of a Roman aqueduct stretching across the open plain, with tents pitched nearby and figures in traditional Ottoman dress standing in the foreground. The expansive composition evokes both the physical scale and solitude of the ancient site, with the Meander Valley and distant hills forming a majestic backdrop. The lower view focuses on Le Théâtre de Laodicée, a well-preserved Roman theater carved into a hillside. The curved tiers of seating are partially intact and rise dramatically from the valley floor. Figures at the base of the structure offer a sense of scale and human presence, grounding the archaeological grandeur in everyday life. The view conveys both the engineering sophistication of the Romans and the passage of time through nature’s quiet reclamation of the site. These lithographs are part of Louis de Laborde’s documentation of Asia Minor, produced around 1840, and published in Paris by the firm of Engelmann et Compagnie, specialists in fine travel prints. His work combined artistic sensitivity with archaeological precision, making these prints valuable both as historical records and decorative works of art. Condition report: This double-sheet lithograph is in very good condition. Both images are sharp and clean, with fine detail preserved. There is minor foxing in the margins and light age toning at the edges of the sheet. The paper remains full and untrimmed, with no tears or significant defects. Framing suggestions: To best present both views, use a tall vertical frame with a neutral ivory or pale beige mat that allows for a generous window above and below the horizontal fold. A traditional gold, walnut, or ebonized wood frame will complement the classical subject matter. UV-protective glass is recommended for preservation. A magnificent piece for collectors of archaeological prints, Orientalist landscapes, or 19th-century documentation of Asia Minor. See less