Bernard de Montfaucon, Roman Antiquities and Classical Bronze Objects, 1721, Paper Engraving, Set of 2

Details

Description

Title: Pair of Roman Antiquities & Classical Bronze Objects Engravings, 1721 : This elegant pair of early eighteenth-century copper engravings … Read more Title: Pair of Roman Antiquities & Classical Bronze Objects Engravings, 1721 : This elegant pair of early eighteenth-century copper engravings originates from Bernard de Montfaucon’s celebrated work Antiquity Explained and Represented in Sculptures, published in London in 1721. Montfaucon’s monumental encyclopedic survey of classical antiquities is widely regarded as one of the foundational publications of archaeology and art history, documenting ancient Roman and Greek objects, sculpture, decorative arts, and ceremonial artifacts from important European collections. The two plates present a fascinating collection of classical mirrors, bronze vessels, ritual utensils, ornamental objects, ceremonial implements, and domestic antiquities inspired by ancient Roman daily life. Particularly striking are the beautifully engraved hand mirrors featuring mythological scenes and classical figures, alongside finely rendered ritual vessels, ladles, knives, and decorative bronze objects. The compositions combine archaeological precision with the refined decorative elegance admired during the rise of European neoclassicism. Executed through delicate copperplate engraving, the plates display exceptional clarity and balance. The refined linear shading and carefully arranged objects create highly decorative compositions while preserving the scholarly intent of Montfaucon’s publication. Such engravings were highly influential among architects, collectors, artists, and Grand Tour travelers fascinated by the rediscovery of the ancient world during the eighteenth century. Together the pair forms an especially attractive decorative ensemble, ideal for display in libraries, studies, offices, or interiors inspired by classical and neoclassical design. The engravings work beautifully framed side by side and pair particularly well with dark walnut, museum black, or lightly gilt frames combined with generous ivory or parchment-toned mats. These are original eighteenth-century copperplate engravings printed in London in 1721, not modern reproductions. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The engravings are sold unframed; any framed images shown are for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale. Condition: Good overall condition with age-related toning, scattered foxing, visible center folds as issued, and minor edge wear consistent with age. Wide margins preserved. Framing tips: Particularly effective displayed as a matching pair in dark walnut, ebonized, or museum black frames with wide warm ivory mats, creating a refined Grand Tour or neoclassical presentation. Technique: Copperplate engravings Maker: Bernard de Montfaucon, France, 1721 See less