Romance
€ 1 490
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Light to moderate age toning, a visible plate mark, and a well-preserved impression showing some natural softness in the engraving lines typical of early impressions from large folio plates. Minor edge wear. Sold unframed.
Set of 3 Antique Putti & Cupid Engravings, Montfaucon Antiquity Explained 1721
This refined set of three copper engravings originates from Bernard de Montfaucon’s foundational antiquarian publication Antiquity Explained and Represented in Sculptures, Volume I, issued in London in 1721. The plates depict playful putti and Cupid figures derived from ancient Roman reliefs, gems, and sculptural fragments recorded in major European collections.
Montfaucon’s work represents the birth of systematic classical archaeology, combining scholarship with engraved visual documentation. These smaller compositions were intended to illustrate recurring symbolic motifs in Roman art, such as love, play, music, and ritual, making them both academically significant and visually appealing.
Grouped together, the three engravings form a balanced decorative ensemble with strong rhythm and harmony, well suited to refined interiors, libraries, or classical-inspired spaces. Individually subtle, the set gains presence and coherence when displayed as a group.
The set is sold unframed.
Condition report:
Uniform age toning across the three sheets, clearly visible plate marks, and moderately inked impressions with some natural softness to the lines. Minor edge wear and light surface handling, consistent with early 18th-century folio engravings.
Framing suggestions:
Frame as a horizontal row or vertical trio using matching dark wood or black frames with narrow ivory mats to emphasize the classical elegance and unity of the set.
Keywords:
Bernard de Montfaucon, Antiquity Explained, 1721 engraving, putti, Cupid, amorini, classical antiquity, Roman sculpture, antiquarian print set, Grand Tour art, 18th century engraving, classical wall art, interior decoration, mythological engraving
Technique
Copper engraving
Maker
Bernard de Montfaucon, London, 1721
