"A View of the Grand Walk &c in Vauxhall Gardens Taken from the Entrance / Vue de la Grande Allee du Jardin de Vauxhall Prise de l'Entree", Sayer, Robert

Optical prints (or vue d’optique) were made to be viewed in a special apparatus that provided the viewer with an illusion of depth (early 3-D). The large mirror employed in the viewing machine showed the image reversed so many of these views have the titles and information engraved forward and backwards to facilitate viewing in the machine or by hand. These prints were only produced for a short period of time (1740 to 1790) and then were replaced with the invention of the smaller steroviewer. These views are some of the most distinctive and interesting images of the eighteenth century, and their distinctive engraving style, striking perspective and bright original color makes them as visually delightful as they are historically fascinating.

An attractive view of the tree-lined path in Vauxhall Gardens along the south bank of the Thames River. Depicts numerous well-to-do Londoners taking in a concert in the veranda above the Grand Walk. Titles in both English and French. Engraved by Rocher and published by Robert Sayer at the Golden Buck.

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Condition: B+

A nice impression with a bit of toning along the platemark at bottom. There are remnants of paper tape along the top sheet edge on verso.