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 view by Jacques Francois Chereau shows victorious British troops marching through New York City with a handful of onlookers along the sides of the street. Under the direction of General Howe, the British took control of New York in September 1776 and held the city throughout the Revolutionary War. Includes titles in both French and German.

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Condition: B+

A dark impression with a few faint stains, mostly in the blank margins.