Probst, Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, 1780, Print

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Mausolee – Mausoleum of Halicarnassus Optical Print by Probst c.1780 This striking antique optical print, titled Mausolee, presents a grand … Read more Mausolee – Mausoleum of Halicarnassus Optical Print by Probst c.1780 This striking antique optical print, titled Mausolee, presents a grand and theatrical interpretation of the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The scene features a colossal, multi-tiered pyramidal structure surrounded by columns, statues, and golden embellishments. Richly dressed figures populate the square in the foreground, arriving in carriages or standing in lively conversation, adding life and scale to this imagined view of the famous tomb. The real Mausoleum was constructed between 353 and 351 BCE in Halicarnassus (modern-day Bodrum, Turkey) as a monumental tomb for Mausolus, a satrap of the Persian Empire. Commissioned by his wife and sister Artemisia II, the tomb was renowned in antiquity for its architectural beauty and lavish sculptures created by some of the finest Greek artists of the time. This print is a vue d’optique, or optical view, designed to be viewed through a zograscope—a special device using a convex lens and mirror to create the illusion of depth and three-dimensionality. These perspective prints were especially popular in the 18th century for educational and entertainment purposes. Published by Georg Balthasar Probst in Augsburg around 1780, this print reflects both Enlightenment fascination with antiquity and the era’s decorative aesthetic. Probst’s workshop was famous for producing vivid, hand-coloured optical prints of exotic locations, monuments, and historic sites for European audiences eager to explore the world through visual media. Condition summary: Very good condition with excellent hand-colouring and a clean, strong impression. Light age-toning and mild foxing mainly in the margins. Paper is sound and well-preserved. Framing tips: Mount with a pale ivory or warm grey mat to enhance the bold colours. Frame in black, ebonised wood, or gilded molding to evoke the 18th-century style. UV-protective glass is recommended to protect the original hand-colouring. See less