Grand Pond at Biljoen – Antique c.1790 Print Dedicated to Princess Wilhelmina
€ 470
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Date
1790
Sheet size
36.5 × 47.4 cm (14.4 × 18.7 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-13786-5
Condition
Good condition for its age. The sheet shows overall light toning with some foxing mainly in the outer margins. Plate marks are clearly visible, and the impression remains crisp with fine details intact. There are some faint creases but no tears or re.
About this sheet
View of the Grand Pond at Biljoen – Dedicated to Princess Frederica Louise Wilhelmina, circa 1790
This elegant antique engraving depicts a tranquil view of the grand pond (étang) at Biljoen, a historic castle estate located near Velp in the Netherlands. The print is titled in French: "Vue du grand Etang à Biljoen" and is dedicated to Her Serene Highness Frederica Louise Wilhelmina, Princess of Orange and Nassau. She was the wife of William V, Prince of Orange, and a significant cultural patron during the late 18th century.
The composition captures the refined beauty of Biljoen’s landscaped park, showing figures promenading along the water's edge while others engage in boating and tending to the estate grounds. Tall mature trees elegantly frame the scene, their branches forming a natural canopy over the reflective pond. The delicate engraving technique renders the leafy textures, rippling water, and atmospheric perspective with great finesse, typical of late 18th-century Dutch and French landscape engravings.
The engraving is signed lower left: "C.F. Boving fecit et pinx." Carl Frederik Boving (1745–1825) was a noted Danish artist active in the Netherlands, known for his landscape views and estate portraits executed for noble patrons. The dedication to Princess Wilhelmina underlines the high-status audience and ceremonial function of this print as a commemorative or presentational work, celebrating the princess’s association with the estate.
Condition: Good condition for its age. The sheet shows overall light toning with some foxing mainly in the outer margins. Plate marks are clearly visible, and the impression remains crisp with fine details intact. There are some faint creases but no tears or repairs.
Framing Tip: Frame this engraving in a neoclassical or gilt frame with a cream or pale grey mount to enhance its refined landscape detail and courtly dedication. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve its delicate lines and historical inscription.
