Classical Gods & Mythology, Set of 3 Antique Engravings – Montfaucon 1721
€ 1 490
Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)
Date
1721
Mapmaker / artist
Bernard de Montfaucon, London, 1721
Technique
Copper engraving
Sheet size
42.5 × 24.8 cm (16.7 × 9.8 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-14184-1-53, -55, -60
What the condition grades mean
Excellent
Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
Very good
Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
Good
Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
Fair
Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.
Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.
Condition
Consistent age toning across all three sheets, visible plate marks, and stable, moderately inked impressions with natural variation in line strength. Minor edge wear and light surface handling, in keeping with early 18th-century folio engravings.
About this sheet
Classical Gods & Mythology, Set of 3 Antique Engravings – Montfaucon 1721
This cohesive set of three copper engravings originates from Bernard de Montfaucon’s seminal antiquarian publication Antiquity Explained and Represented in Sculptures, Volume I, issued in London in 1721. Each plate records mythological scenes and classical figures based on ancient Roman reliefs, sculptures, and monuments preserved in prominent European collections.
Montfaucon’s work marks the beginning of systematic classical archaeology, presenting antiquity through engraved visual evidence rather than textual description alone. The scenes shown here reflect the narrative richness of Roman mythology, combining gods, allegorical figures, and symbolic episodes that were central to ancient visual culture.
Together, the three engravings form a balanced ensemble with strong decorative rhythm. The combination of oval medallions and larger narrative scenes gives the set both academic depth and visual presence, making it well suited to refined interiors, libraries, or collector-focused displays inspired by the Grand Tour tradition.
The set is sold unframed.
Condition report: Consistent age toning across all three sheets, visible plate marks, and stable, moderately inked impressions with natural variation in line strength. Minor edge wear and light surface handling, in keeping with early 18th-century folio engravings.
Framing suggestions: Frame as a unified group using matching dark wood or black frames with ivory mats; works well as a vertical arrangement or as three aligned pieces for a classical wall display.
