About this sheet
Original antique engraving depicting Plato with his disciples at Cape Sounion in Attica, Greece, engraved by Ambroise Tardieu for the atlas accompanying Jean-Jacques Barthélemy’s celebrated Voyage du jeune Anacharsis en Grèce.
Titled “Platon sur le Cap Sunium, entouré de ses Disciples,” the engraving presents an atmospheric and romanticized view of the famous promontory at the southern tip of Attica.
The classical Temple of Poseidon dominates the rocky headland, dramatically positioned above the Aegean Sea. Plato is represented with a group of disciples near the temple, transforming the landscape into an evocative scene of philosophical discussion in the ancient Greek world.
The composition is particularly striking for its dramatic coastal setting. Steep cliffs descend towards the sea, a sailing vessel appears in the distance and an expansive sky provides an impressive backdrop to the ancient temple. Fine engraving throughout the rocks, vegetation, architecture, water and clouds gives the scene considerable depth and atmosphere.
Cape Sounion was an important sacred site in antiquity, strategically situated overlooking the maritime approaches to Athens. Its celebrated Temple of Poseidon remains one of the most recognizable monuments of ancient Greece.
The association with Plato gives this engraving an additional appeal for collectors interested in classical philosophy and intellectual history.
Creator / Engraver: Ambroise Tardieu
Title: Platon sur le Cap Sunium, entouré de ses Disciples
Publication: Paris
Date: 1825
Technique: Engraving on paper
Plate: Pl. 35
Subject: Plato, Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon, Greece
Condition:
Good antique condition with general age toning, scattered foxing and occasional stains and marks, particularly in the margins. Some discoloration and old mounting or binding traces are visible along the sheet edges. The engraved image remains strong, atmospheric 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.
Keywords: Plato, Plato and His Disciples, Cape Sounion, Cape Sunium, Temple of Poseidon, Poseidon, Ancient Greece, Greek Philosophy, Classical Philosophy, Ancient Athens, Attica, Aegean Sea, Greek Temple, Classical Architecture, Grand Tour, Ambroise Tardieu, Antique Engraving, Greek Landscape, Classical Antiquity, 1825.
