About this sheet
Classical Mythological Figures Engraving, Montfaucon Antiquité Expliquée 1721
This original early eighteenth-century copper engraving originates from Bernard de Montfaucon’s monumental antiquarian publication L’Antiquité expliquée et représentée en figures, published in Paris in 1721. Widely regarded as one of the most important scholarly works of the Enlightenment, Montfaucon’s encyclopedic study systematically documented the art, mythology, and material culture of the ancient world, laying essential foundations for modern archaeology and art history.
The plate presents a carefully arranged compilation of mythological and sculptural studies derived from ancient sources. Multiple vignettes depict classical figures, relief fragments, and symbolic motifs recorded from antique sculptures, gems, and coins. The composition functions almost as a visual catalogue, comparing different representations of mythological subjects collected from prominent European antiquarian collections, including references to works associated with scholars such as Maffei and other early collectors of classical antiquities.
At the bottom of the composition, two triton-like sea beings with human torsos and serpent tails raise a nude female figure above the waves, evoking marine mythology connected to nereids, sea deities, or allegorical representations of Venus emerging from the sea. Surrounding studies include winged figures, sculptural heads, medallions, and mythological scenes rendered with remarkable clarity. Montfaucon’s analytical approach—placing multiple related images together for comparison—reflects the Enlightenment ambition to classify and interpret antiquity through visual evidence.
The engraving demonstrates the refined precision of early eighteenth-century Parisian copperplate engraving, characterized by delicate linework, balanced spacing, and restrained tonal shading. Beyond its scholarly significance, the plate possesses strong decorative appeal, combining classical imagery with an elegant graphic structure that suits both traditional and contemporary interiors.
This original antique engraving is offered unframed, allowing flexibility to select a frame appropriate to the intended interior or collection setting.
Condition: Good antique condition with age-related toning and light paper discoloration consistent with early eighteenth-century prints. Minor edge wear and handling marks mainly confined to the margins. Plate impression visible. Blank verso.
Framing tips: A dark walnut or gilded frame with a wide ivory mat enhances the classical atmosphere of the engraving. For a modern presentation, a thin black gallery frame with generous mat margins provides a refined museum-style appearance.
Technique: Copper engraving
Maker: Bernard de Montfaucon, France, Paris, 1721
Keywords: Montfaucon engraving, Antiquité expliquée, antique classical engraving, mythological engraving, 18th century archaeology print, French antiquarian print, classical mythology art, triton engraving, Venus mythology print, ancient sculpture illustration, Enlightenment era print, archaeological illustration, classical antiquities engraving, Paris 1721 engraving, museum quality antique print, neoclassical decor artwork, collector antiquities print, historical mythology engraving, Bartele Gallery antique print, copperplate engraving 18th century.
