Rue des Marmousets (Vieux Paris)

Etching on thin wove paper.

Reference: Beraldi 1; Villet 1.

Seemingly a first state; definitely before letters and before the plate started to darken due to wear after repeated editioning. This impression is highly contrasted, accentuating the artist’s intention to show bright light entering narrow Medieval streets in Paris, many of which would soon disappear under the Haussmannization of the city.

Provenance: Frederick Keppel & Co., with their label preserved.

A very fine and bright impression in nearly perfect condition, aside from gum residue in the right sheet edge, well away from the image. This sheet was certainly conserved at some point, which is quite usual for a print this age. It is the best impression of this print we have ever seen. The price we are asking for this iconic etching revival print is absurdly low, in our opinion, and dictated simply by the fact that French etching revival is today of interest to few. Let this not fool you. If you are still reading this, and like the image, do yourself the favor of buying this print. It is a glorious etching.