Antique Engraving of Geneva, Switzerland from Zurlauben’s Topography
Vue de La Vile de Geneve Prise du Lac
Large format Copperplate Engraving from Baron Zurlauben’s topography published around 1780.
Dessine par Brandoin, Grave par Nee.
The letters A.P.D.R. appear on the print, which means it was engraved “avec privilège du roi” – or licensed by the king – this is an annotation which one sees only on prints published before the French revolution. It indicated the print had been approved by the French censures.
Dimensions: Sheets including margins measure around 19.25 X 13 inches (49 X 33 cm). Image size around 14.5 X 9 inches (37 X 23 cm)
Condition: Some light foxing, predominantly in the margins. A few darker spots as can be seen in the image. (one in sky, one near title) . A striking sheet with good contrast.
Published in different editions between 1770 and 1786
With over 400 beautifully produced engravings, Baron de Zurlauben’s “Tableaux de la Suisse” is one of the most complete and beautiful books on Switzerland ever produced. The project was supported by Jean Benjamin de Laborde (1734 – 1794), a lieutenant general in the French army, and a favorite of Louis XV, and the Swiss General and military historian Baron von Zurlauben. The principal author, Zurlauben (1720 – 1799), had studied history with Jean Rollin in Paris and was a general of the “Schweizergard” (Swiss Guards) who protected French Royalty.
The full title of the work is: Tableaux De La Suisse, Ou Voyage Pittoresque Fait Dans Les Treize Cantons Et Etats Allies Du Corps Helvetique : Représentant les divers Phénomenes que la nature y rassemble, & les beautés dont l’art les enrichis; suivis de la description topographique, physique, historique, morale, politique & littéraire de ce Pays Par M. le Baron De ZurLauben.
