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 an imaginary view of King Street in Boston, which was renamed State Street during the Revolutionary War. Several important historical sites were located on King Street, including the Old State House and the Boston Custom House. The image title in French, Vue de Boston, is printed in reverse above image.

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Condition: B

A crisp impression with some dampstaining and a couple short edge tears at top, one of which just enters engraved image.