Optica View The Hague Hofvijver & Binnenhof, Basset c.1770 Hand-Colored Print
This is a fine hand-colored optical print titled *Le fameux Vivier de la Haye*, also captioned in Latin *Prospectus Vivari Hagae-Comitis*. It depicts a wide perspective of the Hofvijver pond with the stately Binnenhof complex along the right and the promenade with trees to the left, viewed towards the tower of the Great Church in The Hague.
Engraved and published by Basset, Rue St Jacques, Paris, circa 1770. Optical prints (vues d’optique) like this were designed to be viewed through a zograscope or perspective machine, enhancing the sense of depth. They were highly popular in the 18th century among European collectors fascinated by cityscapes and landmarks.
The scene shows elegantly dressed figures walking along the tree-lined path, groups of people gathering near the water’s edge, and ducks swimming in the Hofvijver. The architectural details of the Binnenhof buildings are carefully rendered, with strong colors in green, ochre, blue, and rose highlighting the scene.
Condition report: Good condition. Clean impression with bright period hand coloring. Slight age toning to edges and faint vertical center crease from original binding or storage. Margins complete. Supported by tape around borders on the reverse. Verso blank.
Framing suggestion: Frame with a gold or walnut moulding with an archival cream mat to enhance its classical and architectural beauty. Display under UV-protective glass to preserve the delicate watercolors.
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