240 - A. BOREL (1743-1810), A theatrical scene featuring a statue, Aquatint

A. BOREL (1743-1810), A theatrical scene featuring a statue, Aquatint Antoine Borel (1743 Paris - after 1810 ): A theatrical scene featuring a statue Three figures in front of a statue set against an architectural backdrop, with a French caption, 18th century, Aquatint Technique: Aquatint on Paper Impression Quality: An absolutely superb, harmonious print, with crisp lines and well-balanced tones. A slight loss of detail in the centre caused by a delicate strand of hair resting on the print. Inscription: lower left signed in the printing plate: "ABorel inv. excudit.". At the lower part inscribed in the printing plate: "Lève les yeux, Barbare, et contemple ton ouvrage. / Tom 1er / Pag. 411". Date: 18th century Description: Within an architectural setting featuring garlands and drapery, a theatrical interior scene unfolds. Three elegantly dressed 18th-century figures are gathered around a round plinth; on the right, a man points emphatically towards a female statue or figure standing above it. On the left, a lady is supporting a man who is stepping back. Strong chiaroscuro modelling, delicate hatching and clear contour lines create a sense of depth, texture and dramatic lines of sight towards the central artwork. Source: Arnaud Berquin (1747 -1791 ) Œuvres complètes de Berquin, um 1800 | Book, Genre, Politics, Fashion Keywords: Interior; Figurative decoration; Sculpture; Piedestal; Drapery; Architectural setting; Garlands; Gesture; Theatricality; Book illustration; French text; 18th century; courtly attire; directing the gaze; interior; allegory; art appreciation; printmaking; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 27,5 cm x 18,3 cm (10,8 x 7,2 in), Plate: 20,4 cm x 13,5 cm (8 x 5,3 in), Depiction: 15,2 cm x 10,1 cm (6 x 4 in) Condition: Rather good condition. A tanned sheet with discolouration along the margins, a few small spots and slight creases; the margins are irregular and slightly worn in places.