241 - A. BOREL (1743-1810), A courtly scene in the salon, Aquatint

A. BOREL (1743-1810), A courtly scene in the salon, Aquatint Antoine Borel (1743 Paris - after 1810 ): A courtly scene in a salon A courtly social scene in a lavishly furnished salon, with a French caption, 18th century, Aquatint Technique: Aquatint on Paper Impression Quality: An absolutely superb, harmonious print. Inscription: lower left signed in the printing plate: "ABorel del. et sculp.". At the lower part inscribed in the printing plate: "Vous pouvez, ma fille, accepter ses bienfaits ; il sera demain votre pere. / Tom. 3. / Page 241". Date: 18th century Description: An interior scene featuring several elegantly dressed figures from courtly circles. In the centre sits a young woman, towards whom a kneeling figure turns imploringly; onlookers watch the encounter intently. On the left, a curtain, a window and a chair frame the scene; on the right, further figures are arranged in tiers against wall panels and pilasters. Delicate lines and hatching give form to faces, fabrics and the space. The ornamental frame with a garland of flowers emphasises the character of an illustrated, narrative print. Source: Arnaud Berquin (1747 -1791 ) Œuvres complètes de Berquin, um 1800 | Book, Genre, Politics, Fashion Keywords: Interior; Social scene; Courtly attire; Ladies; Gentlemen; Knee-length; Curtain; Window; Armchair; Salon; Encounter; Conversation; Printed art; Ornamental frame; Floral garland; French inscription; Rococo fashion; Figures arranged in tiers; 18th century; Classicism; Genre; France; Size: Paper: 27,1 cm x 18,3 cm (10,7 x 7,2 in), Plate: 20,2 cm x 13,4 cm (8 x 5,3 in), Depiction: 15,2 cm x 10,1 cm (6 x 4 in) Condition: Rather good condition. The paper is generally slightly browned and somewhat stained, with occasional signs of mould and age. The page edges are irregular and partly frayed; there are small creases and signs of damage at the corners, particularly at the bottom. Slight discolouration at the edges and minor signs of wear along the wide outer margin.