Auguste Raffet, Fountain of Mariam, 1837, Lithograph

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Lithograph on wove paper, signed in the plate. This fine lithograph, executed by Auguste Raffet, depicts the Fontaine de Mariam, … Read more Lithograph on wove paper, signed in the plate. This fine lithograph, executed by Auguste Raffet, depicts the Fontaine de Mariam, a richly ornamented fountain in Bakhchisarai, Crimea. Raffet, one of the most acclaimed lithographers of the 19th century, is celebrated for his remarkable attention to detail and his ability to capture both architectural precision and atmospheric depth. The present work belongs to the artist’s celebrated Crimean series, published in Paris by Gihaut frères, which documented landscapes, monuments, and daily life across the Black Sea region. The plate is finely rendered, showing the intricate decoration of the fountain juxtaposed with the scattered rubble in the foreground, underscoring both the cultural richness and the historical fragility of the site. Raffet’s Crimean views were widely admired by collectors and travelers alike for their historical and documentary value, as well as for their technical excellence. Works from this series are held in important institutional collections, including the Bibliothèque nationale de France. Light overall toning with scattered foxing, particularly in the margins; paper slightly time-stained. Image remains well-preserved with good contrast. This piece is attributed to the mentioned designer/maker. It has no attribution mark and no
official proof of authenticity,
however it is well documented in design history. I take full responsibility for any authenticity



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