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 Print Quality: An absolutely superb, harmonious print. Inscription: Signed in the printing plate at the lower left: “ABorel del. et sculp.” At the lower part, inscribed in the printing plate: “Vous pouvez, ma fille, accepter ses bienfaits ; il sera demain votre père. / Tom. 3. / Page 241.” Date: 18th century Description: An interior scene featuring several elegantly dressed figures from courtly circles. In the center sits a young woman, toward 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, additional 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 emphasizes the character of an illustrated, narrative print. Source: Arnaud Berquin (1747–1791) Œuvres complètes de Berquin, ca. 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: In fairly good condition. The paper is generally slightly browned and somewhat stained, with occasional signs of mold 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 discoloration at the edges and minor signs of wear along the wide outer margin.