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.

This is a lovely view of St. George's church in Hanover Square in London. Built in the early 18th century, St. George's was designed by John James and was one of Queen Anne Churches, a project to build fifty new churches around London. Over the last two centuries the church has become a desirable venue for high-society weddings, including Theodore Roosevelt in 1886.

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Condition: A

Light soiling in blank margins.