Antique 18th C Georgian DESRAIS DUPIN French Hand Colored Engraving Print FABULOUS!

Fine Art : Printmaking

 

A rare and super sophisticated lady from the late 18th Century designed by Desrais and engraved by Dupin.

The Desrais/Dupin hand colored French costumes are very rare and extremely sought after. The signature of both artists is engraved on each side, below the image.

This is the end of the "Ancient Régime" a few years before the French Revolution. A few years later, this young "élégante" might have lost her head. Literally!

This is a gauze dress for the Summer with a profusion of taffetas ruffles ( as described by the text ) These extravagant ruffles make the dress look very much like a giant strawberry Melba with a lot of whipped cream! A fan and a cane are the accessories of the time.

The hat (easy to wear with anything isn't it?) s a HUGE flower..full of flowers. The lady wears silk stockings which must have been beautifully smooth and shiny. Notice the very small shoes: the idea of miniature feet may not have been a Chinese invention after all..

The piece has exquisite pastel colors still very vivid and fresh: light green, turquoise, royal blue, fresh yellow and pink. It is quite large (not the smaller format of later reprints) and perfect for framing.

MEASUREMENTS: Total Length: 15 3/4". Total Width: 11 3/4". Colored subject Length: 9". Subject Width: 6 1/2".

CONDITION: Right edge would need a little bit of pressing but has no real damage. In very good condition.

The piece will be shipped Registered Airmail (very safe!) including insurance and signature at delivery.

Item ID: 1036PNT