Catalog Archive
Auction 129, Lot 12

"Partie des Forces de l'Europe…", Fer, Nicolas de

Subject: Title Pages

Period: 1693 (dated)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
11 x 7.5 inches
27.9 x 19.1 cm
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Nicolas de Fer's epic eight-volume treatise on the fortifications of Europe contained nearly 200 plans and several different frontispieces. This one is presented in the more traditional allegorical format; many of the other ones stressed military warfare and fortification design. The central figure is a personification of Europe. She is being presented with tributes and the spoils of war and shown fortification plans. The figure in Roman armor holds a staff with the symbols of Louis XIV, the sun-king of France (whose bust appears to the right of Europa). Engraved by Adrian Schoonebeek, a follower of Romeyn de Hooghe.

References: Shirley (TP) #68B.

Condition: A

Remnants of mounting hinges on verso.

Estimate: $200 - $250

Sold for: $150

Closed on 9/23/2009

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