Optica View Amsterdam Kloveniersburgwal & St. Anthoniesluis, c.1770
This is a finely engraved and hand-colored optical print titled Canalis quae vocatur Kleveniers prospiciens versus domum ponderium S. Antonii Amsteldamensis, published circa 1770. The scene depicts the Kloveniersburgwal canal in Amsterdam looking towards the St. Anthoniesluis weigh house area.
The perspective shows the canal lined with elegant gabled houses, trees along the quays, figures in colorful period costume walking and riding on horseback, and various boats including an ornate passenger barge and cargo vessels. In the distance is the historic St. Anthoniesluis weigh house with its pointed towers and bustling quay.
Optica prints (vues d’optique) were perspective engravings designed to be viewed through a zograscope to create a three-dimensional illusion. This print includes the title in Latin and Spanish, indicating it was produced for the broad European market. Such views were popular educational and decorative prints depicting famous European cityscapes and monuments.
Condition report:
Fair to good condition. Strong impression with vivid period hand coloring. General age toning with scattered brown spots in upper margin and sky area, and 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 linear perspective. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve the vibrant colors and paper quality.
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