After Dominique Vivant Denon, Napoleon Egypt Expedition, 1802, Engravings on Paper, Set of 2

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This refined pair of copper-engraved plates originates from the monumental publication Voyage dans la Basse et la Haute Égypte by … Read more This refined pair of copper-engraved plates originates from the monumental publication Voyage dans la Basse et la Haute Égypte by Dominique Vivant Denon, issued in Paris in the early years of the 19th century following Napoleon’s Egyptian campaign. Together, these two plates form a coherent visual study of ancient Egyptian ritual, symbolism, and ceremonial objects, conceived as part of one of the most influential archaeological publications ever produced.

The first plate presents a systematic and almost architectural overview of Egyptian military and religious emblems. It illustrates standards, sceptres, ceremonial staffs, animal-topped insignia, and symbolic objects rendered with scientific precision. Birds, deities, and sacred animals appear mounted on poles or staffs, reflecting their function as standards or ritual markers within temple processions and military contexts. The composition reads as an encyclopaedic reference sheet, revealing the Enlightenment ambition to catalogue and understand ancient civilisation through measured observation and line-based clarity. The second plate complements this symbolic overview with narrative scenes depicting ritual processions, ceremonial gatherings, and daily religious practices. Figures are shown carrying canopies, participating in rites, and engaging in activities associated with temple life and ritual order. The scenes are horizontally arranged, evoking frieze-like reliefs and reinforcing the connection between Denon’s engravings and the visual language of ancient Egyptian wall decoration. Issued under Napoleon’s authority, Denon’s work laid the foundation for modern Egyptology and directly influenced later publications such as the de l’Égypte. These engravings are prized not only for their historical importance but also for their restrained elegance, making them highly attractive to collectors, interior designers, and institutions alike. Offered here as a matched pair, the plates are ideal for symmetrical hanging or as a single horizontal ensemble. Together they provide both analytical and narrative perspectives on ancient Egypt, enhancing their intellectual and decorative appeal.

Condition: Both engravings are in very good condition for their age. Light, even age toning to the paper, minor scattered spotting, and soft plate impressions visible. Wide original margins preserved. No tears or losses observed. Technique: Copper engraving Maker: Dominique Vivant Denon, France, ca. 1802–1805 See less