Optical View of Constantinople, 1760, Paper

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"Vue du Port de Constantinople, prise du côté du Nord". Contemporary handcolored optical view, Paris, J. Chereau, ±1760. : This … Read more "Vue du Port de Constantinople, prise du côté du Nord". Contemporary handcolored optical view, Paris, J. Chereau, ±1760. : This contemporary handcolored optical view, titled "Vue du Port de Constantinople, prise du côté du Nord," is an exquisite representation from around 1760. Published in Paris by J. Chereau, the artwork captures the bustling activity and grandeur of the port of Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) as seen from the north side. The hand coloring adds vividness and depth, bringing the scene to life with meticulous attention to detail. The port is depicted with numerous ships and boats, alongside the iconic skyline featuring domes and minarets, evoking the historical significance and vibrant atmosphere of the city during that period. This piece is a fine example of 18th-century European views of the Orient, blending artistic skill with historical and cultural insights. The maker of this view is Jacques Chereau, a notable French engraver and publisher active during the 18th century. Jacques Chereau was renowned for his detailed and vibrant optical views, which were popular during his time for their immersive and realistic qualities. This particular view, "Vue du Port de Constantinople, prise du côté du Nord," is a testament to his skill in capturing and presenting scenes with both artistic flair and historical accuracy. Optical prints, or "optica prints," are a type of print that was popular in the 18th century, designed to be viewed through a special optical device called a zograscope or an optical box. These prints were typically hand-colored engravings or etchings that created the illusion of depth and three-dimensionality when viewed through the device, enhancing the visual experience. The key characteristics of optical prints include: 1. **Perspective and Depth**: The prints were created with exaggerated perspectives to enhance the sense of depth when viewed through an optical device. 2. **Bright Colors**: Hand coloring was often applied to make the scenes more vivid and lifelike. 3. **Scenes and Subjects**: They commonly depicted famous cities, landscapes, historical events, and daily life scenes, providing viewers with a glimpse of far-off places and significant happenings. 4. **Mirrored Text**: Sometimes, the text in the prints was reversed (mirrored) so that it would appear correctly when viewed through the optical device. Optical prints were a popular form of entertainment and education, allowing people to experience the visual splendor of distant places and events in an era before photography. This engraving comes with matting board. See less