Europe as a Whole · 19th century
€ 340
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Condition report: Very good condition with fine color preservation and a strong impression. Minor toning and faint foxing in the margins, not affecting the image. Plate mark visible.
Antique Print of Villa au Vésinet (Seine-et-Oise) by Héret, c.1900
Antique architectural print titled "Villa au Vésinet (Seine-et-Oise)," designed by architect Mr. Héret. This plate originates from *La Brique et La Terre Cuite* by Pierre Chabat, published in Paris around 1900, a celebrated portfolio of architectural studies showcasing the creative use of brick and terracotta in France.
The print presents the elegant façade of a villa at Le Vésinet, a planned garden town near Paris founded in the mid-19th century. Known for its tree-lined boulevards, lakes, and villas, Le Vésinet became a fashionable retreat for affluent Parisians seeking suburban charm. This design reflects the spirit of the era, with a balance of decorative brickwork, stone, and timber details.
The elevation reveals a villa with a steep roof and a projecting bay framed by ornate wooden gables and balcony. Red brick is contrasted with pale stone, creating geometric patterns typical of late 19th-century French domestic architecture. Below the façade, the plans of the ground floor and first floor show a functional layout, including vestibule, dining room, kitchen, salon, cabinet d’études, and upper chambers with dressing and service rooms. A cross-section drawing demonstrates the interior volumes and staircase structure.
Such illustrations were intended to inspire architects and builders, providing precise references for proportion, material use, and stylistic integration. Villas like this embody the suburban expansion and architectural eclecticism of the Belle Époque, when craftsmanship and modern living ideals came together.
Condition report: Very good condition with fine color preservation and a strong impression. Minor toning and faint foxing in the margins, not affecting the image. Plate mark visible.
Framing tips: This print will stand out in a simple dark wood or walnut frame with a cream mat to highlight the warm tones of the brick. For a more striking presentation, a deep green mat with gilt-lined frame enhances the decorative quality of the architecture.
Technique: Chromolithograph
Maker: Pierre Chabat, France, c.1900
