Artwork Page for # 3 from " Livre second essais de Gravjre " Second book of Engraved Designs

Details / Information for # 3 from " Livre second essais de Gravjre " Second book of Engraved Designs

# 3 from " Livre second essais de Gravjre " Second book of Engraved Designs

c. 1703

Pierre Bourdon

(French)
Culture
France, 18th century
Medium
etching and engraving
Credit Line
Gift of William Ellery Greene for the Lucy S. Greene Collection 1963.561
Catalogue raisonné
Fonds Français vol. 3.320.2
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
Print

Description

This etching is from a set of prints showcasing decorative patterns by Bourdon. The title page for the set explains that the designs are “useful for clockmakers, goldsmiths, chiselers, engravers and other people.” These craftsmen who made ornamented objects sometimes consulted printed designs for inspiration. However, pattern prints similar to Bourdon’s also catered to aristocrats and wealthy professionals who pursued knowledge about artists and current styles.
A horizontal print in black ink displays intricate designs for goldsmiths. Three large circular medallions, each filled with figures and dense scrolling foliage, are arranged across the sheet. A central architectural ornament features two perched birds above an oval frame marked in red. A rich floral border lines the top right, while a smaller patterned roundel and artist signatures occupy the bottom left. Sweeping flourishes and a plate number finish the decorative scene.

# 3 from " Livre second essais de Gravjre " Second book of Engraved Designs

c. 1703

Pierre Bourdon

(French)
France, 18th century

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