Ancient Greek Theatre Architectural Plan by Ambroise Tardieu, 1825
€ 330
Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)
Date
1825
Technique
Engraving on paper
Sheet size
19.6 × 24.7 cm (7.7 × 9.7 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-14299-36
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
Wear consistent with age and use. Good antique condition with general age toning, scattered foxing and occasional small stains and marks, particularly in the margins. Some discoloration and wear are visible along the sheet edges. The engraved architectural plan remains strong, clear.Seller Locat.
About this sheet
Original antique architectural engraving showing the plan and arrangement of an ancient Greek theater, engraved by Ambroise Tardieu for the atlas accompanying Jean-Jacques Barthélemy’s celebrated Voyage du jeune Anacharsis en Grèce.
Titled “Ancien Théâtre Grec,” the plate provides a detailed reconstruction of the characteristic semicircular form of a classical Greek theater. The sweeping tiers of seating are arranged around the central orchestra, while the stage complex is clearly represented at the lower part of the plan.
Individual elements are identified in French, including the “Orchestre,” “Thymélé” and “Scène.” Numerous radiating stairways divide the seating into sections and illustrate the sophisticated organization of these large public buildings.
Greek theaters played a central role in the cultural and civic life of the ancient world. Performances of tragedy and comedy formed an important part of religious festivals, particularly those dedicated to Dionysus, and theaters could accommodate thousands of spectators.
Measurement scales along the bottom are given in Greek feet, meters and French feet, emphasizing the architectural and archaeological character of the engraving.
The strong geometric composition makes this an especially decorative architectural print, suitable for collectors interested in ancient Greece, classical architecture, theater and the performing arts.
Creator / Engraver: Ambroise Tardieu
Title: Ancien Théâtre Grec
Publication: Paris
Plate: Pl. 36
Subject: Ancient Greek theater architecture
Good antique condition with general age toning, scattered foxing and occasional small stains and marks, particularly in the margins. Some discoloration and wear are visible along the sheet edges. The engraved architectural plan remains strong, clear and highly detailed. Please study the photographs carefully as they form an important part of the condition description.
Original antique engraving. Not a modern reproduction.
Sold unframed. Any framed or interior images shown are for presentation and inspiration only.
