18th Century
Perspective View
Solothurn, Switzerland
Titel: Prospect der Stadt Solothurn
von der Mittagsseite
Vue de la Ville de Soleure du cote du Midi
Published circa 1760. Em. Buechel Del. Leizel
sc.
Perspective Views (vue perspective,
vue d'optique or in German, Guckkastenblättern)
were meant to be seen with a special viewer
to enhance the three dimensional effect. They
were very popular in the 18th and 19th centuries.
They were designed according to strict principles
of linear perspective, with a distant object
placed in the center of the print, as is the
case with this example. Viewed through a special
"machine," the three dimensional effect
was enhanced. The colors of these wonderful
old prints are often bright and naive, as for
children's illustrations. Traveling vendors
-- who went around to fairs offering views of
the images through the Optical Machine for a
few pennies -- often did the handcoloring themselves,
so it tends to be a bit rough compared with
other period engravings. In our view this adds
to the charm of these pieces!
Condition: There is some toning around the
edges and a tear in the center lower margin
(extends around 1.5 inches up) which has been
taped from behind.
