Optica View Amsterdam Halvemaansbrug & St. Anthoniesluis, Leizelt c.1770
This is a finely engraved and hand-colored optical print titled Le Pont de Halvemansbrugg vue vers le Colveneurs Doelen et le Poids de St. Anthoine à Amsterdam, published in Augsburg by Johann Friedrich Leizelt circa 1770, after a drawing by Jan de Beijer (1703-1780).
The view depicts the Halvemaansbrug bridge in Amsterdam with a perspective towards the Kloveniersdoelen (old civic guard building) and the St. Anthoniesluis lock area. The scene shows elegant canal houses lining the water, tall ships docked along the quay, small boats and ornate passenger barges with figures in colorful period costume, swans swimming in the canal, and the distinctive drawbridge spanning the waterway. On the left are rows of trees and the old city silhouette with towers and spires in the background.
Optica prints (vues d’optique) were perspective engravings designed to be viewed through a zograscope, creating a three-dimensional illusion. Johann Friedrich Leizelt was a leading publisher and engraver of optical views in Augsburg in the mid-to-late 18th century, often working after drawings by Jan de Beijer, a renowned Dutch topographical artist.
Condition report:
Fair condition. Strong impression with vivid period hand coloring. General age toning, faint vertical fold visible in the center, and scattered small surface marks. Minor marginal handling marks typical for 18th-century optical prints. Wide margins intact with no tears or repairs affecting the image.
Framing suggestion:
Frame with a simple black or dark wood moulding and an archival off-white or cream mat to emphasize the rich coloring and strong linear perspective. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve the vibrant colors and paper quality.
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