AP Maggiotto, Voltaire's Zaire, 19th Century, Engravings, Framed, Set of 2

Details

Description

Pair of framed engravings illustrating Voltaire's play, Zaire.
The first scene features a young woman playing the lute, the second … Read more Pair of framed engravings illustrating Voltaire's play, Zaire.
The first scene features a young woman playing the lute, the second shows men playing music and dancing.

They illustrate the alexandrines from scene 1 of Act 1 of the play: "Receive this incense that is due to your eyes, Companions of a husband, and queens everywhere, free without dishonor and wise without constraint, and never owing their virtues to fear."

The plot takes place in Jerusalem in the 13th century, during the Crusades: Sultan Orosmane falls in love with the Christian captive Zaire, a Christian raised in Islam, but whom the Crusaders wish to free.
In this play, Voltaire denounces the prejudices associated with religion. This play was a success from its first performances.

Each engraving contains the following inscriptions: "Franc Maggiotto pinx, Franc Pedroinc apud Nucus Cavalli Venetiis"

As is: stains, foxing, and creases
Not examined without frame

Framed dimensions: 56 x 46cm
Unframed dimensions: 46.5 x 37cm This piece has an attribution mark,
I am sure that it is completely authentic and take full responsibility for any authenticity
issues arising from misattribution See less