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 lovely view of the Pont au Change over the Seine River in Paris. The bridge was named for the goldsmiths and the money changers who had built their businesses atop the bridge. The bridge was reconstructed in the 19th century under the reign of Napoleon III. Published by Daumont, a well-known publisher of optical prints, established in Paris at rue St. Martin.

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Condition: B+

Full contemporary color on double-thick paper with light soiling.