Views of Europe · 18th century
€ 680
Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)
Some creasing. General age-related toning. Please review the images for further condition details.
Pyrotechnicae repraesentationis splendidissimae typus – Fireworks View c.1765
This antique print is an optical view depicting a grand fireworks display, likely celebrating the coronation of the Holy Roman Emperor Joseph II in 1765. The scene shows an elaborate architectural stage with tall columns, arches, and sculptures, illuminated by colourful fireworks bursting above and around the structure. At the front, elegantly dressed figures observe the spectacle, including men in cloaks and tricorn hats and women in formal gowns. The night sky is filled with vivid pyrotechnic shapes, rockets, and golden fountains, while classical statues and ornaments decorate the illuminated stage, enhancing the sense of imperial grandeur.
The print carries captions in Latin, French, Italian, and German, typical of optical views intended for an international market. Such prints were designed to be viewed through a zograscope or optical viewer, which enhanced their perspective depth and colour brilliance, creating a three-dimensional effect that fascinated European audiences in the 18th century.
This engraving was created by Georg Balthasar Probst (1732–1801), a German artist, engraver, and publisher based in Augsburg. Probst specialised in producing ‘vues d’optique’ – perspective views of famous cities, events, and celebrations – often hand-coloured to maximise their decorative and entertainment value. His works remain highly sought after for their vibrant scenes, technical precision, and significance as visual records of European festivities and urban life before photography.
The technique used is engraving with hand-colouring, combining detailed incised lines for architectural and figure outlines with rich watercolour applied by hand to bring the scene to life.
Condition: Good, some creasing. General age-related toning, please study image carefully.
Framing tips: A pale cream or light grey mount will complement the vivid colours and dark sky. For framing, choose black, dark walnut, or gold with an inner decorative edge to enhance its baroque character. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve the hand colouring over time.
