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 prospect view depicts the Montelbaanstoren, a tower overlooking the Oudeschans Canal. The tower was originally constructed in 1516, but its distinctive top half, designed by the architect and sculptor Hendrick de Keyser, was not added on until 1606. Published by Basset, a well-known publisher of optical prints based in Paris.

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Condition: B+

Contemporary color on a watermarked sheet with light scattered foxing, a damp stain in the right blank margin, and remnants of hinge tape on verso. There is a short repaired tear in the bottom blank margin.