Artwork Page for # 4 From " Livre sencond essais de gravjre " second book of Engraved designs

Details / Information for # 4 From " Livre sencond essais de gravjre " second book of Engraved designs

# 4 From " Livre sencond 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 1963.562
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 horizontally oriented etching displays black-inked decorative designs on cream paper. Three circular medallions and two rectangles line the top. Below, two large ornate ovals feature dense, swirling acanthus leaves and small masks, labeled with flowing script. At the bottom, a semi-circle sits between two wide bands of foliage. Fine cross-hatching creates depth throughout, while a red stamp and cursive signature mark the lower margins.

# 4 From " Livre sencond essais de gravjre " second book of Engraved designs

c. 1703

Pierre Bourdon

(French)
France, 18th century

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