444 - P. SCHENK (1653–1713), Plan of the fortress at Béthune, around 1712, copper engraving

P. SCHENK (1653–1713), Plan of the fortress at Béthune, around 1712, copper engraving Pieter Schenk (c. 1653 Elberfeld–1713 Amsterdam): Plan of the fortress of Béthune, military cartographic map, c. 1712, copper engraving Technique: Copper engraving on laid paper Inscription: The copper engraving was produced in red, a color used only rarely and for special occasions, especially in the 18th century. Inscribed in Dutch and Latin below the image. Signed on the plate with an indication of the place: “Pet. Schenk exc. Amst C. P.” Date: c. 1712 Description: Peter Schenk the Elder was a German engraver and cartographer from Elberfeld, now part of Wuppertal. Around 1684, he moved to Amsterdam and became a pupil of Gerard Valck, specializing in mezzotint; he traveled to Leipzig and Berlin. Until his death in 1718/19, he published numerous maps and illustrations. Keywords: 18th century, Baroque, Cities, France, Size: Laid paper: 16.3 cm x 19.0 cm (6.4 x 7.5 in), Image: 14.4 cm x 18.5 cm (5.7 x 7.3 in) Condition: Good condition. The sheet is slightly discolored due to its age and has faint water stains in places within the image area; the upper edge is browned and damaged, and the reverse side is backed with paper. The decorative print is in very good condition.