France · 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 strong colors and clear impression. Minor marginal toning consistent with age. Plate mark visible. No significant blemishes.
Antique French Architectural Print Halle à Marchandises by Chabat c.1900
This antique architectural print, titled Halle à Marchandises (Goods Hall), originates from Pierre Chabat’s renowned series La Brique et la Terre Cuite (The Brick and Terracotta), published in the late 19th century to around 1900. The plate (Pl. XXIII, 2e Série) presents the design of a utilitarian yet refined French building dedicated to the storage and handling of goods.
The lithograph depicts a detailed elevation of the hall, complemented by sectional and plan views that illustrate its construction and layout. The design emphasizes practical considerations—ample interior space, broad access points, and ventilation—while also incorporating decorative architectural elements such as polychrome brickwork, arched openings, and timber trim beneath the roofline. A small carriage and figures included in the foreground add context, situating the hall in its active commercial setting.
Pierre Chabat (1827–1892), a French architect and professor, was celebrated for his studies on construction methods and ornamentation. His series *La Brique et la Terre Cuite* documented the wide-ranging applications of brick and terracotta in both domestic and industrial contexts, highlighting their aesthetic and structural value. Prints from this series stand as both architectural references and decorative works, appealing to collectors, historians, and design enthusiasts alike.
This particular plate offers a fascinating look into the architecture of commerce and industry in 19th-century France. Its balance of utility and ornament illustrates the era’s commitment to beauty even in functional architecture.
Condition report: Very good condition with strong colors and clear impression. Minor marginal toning consistent with age. Plate mark visible. No significant blemishes.
Framing tips: A walnut or dark oak frame with a cream or ivory mat will emphasize the architectural details and the soft earth tones. A thin rust or terracotta liner can further highlight the brick accents.
Technique: Lithograph
Maker: Pierre Chabat, French architect, c.1900
