Optical prints (or vue d’optique) were made to be viewed in a special apparatus that provided the viewer with an illusion of depth (early 3-D). The large mirror employed in the viewing machine showed the image reversed so many of these views have the titles and information engraved forward and backwards to facilitate viewing in the machine or by hand. These prints were only produced for a short period of time (1740 to 1790) and then were replaced with the invention of the smaller steroviewer. These views are some of the most distinctive and interesting images of the eighteenth century, and their distinctive engraving style, striking perspective and bright original color makes them as visually delightful as they are historically fascinating.

A nice pair of optical prints. The first showing the Pont Neuf with the Louvre in Paris drawn by Rigaud and engraved by Leitzelt. The second is an unusual illustration of a fabulous fountain in the Labyrinth at Versailles published by Georg Balthasar.

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Condition: B+

Original color in the opaque style that is so unique to these engravings. Soiled margins with paper mounting tape on the edges of the second engraving.