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.

An attractive view of the old Greenwich Hospital along the Thames River. The hospital served as a home for retired sailors of the Royal Navy from 1692-1869, and is now part of the Old Royal Naval College. No engraver of publisher's imprint, although it is likely issued by Basset, a well-known publisher of optical prints based in Paris.

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Condition: B

There is scattered foxing, light stains, and several minor edge chips and tears confined to the blank margins.