French hand-colored copper plate engraving of fruits, ca. 1780. A gorgeous, framed ensemble of four hand-colored copper plate engravings of various fruits - peaches, apples, apricots, and plums - the fruits identified in French below the images, plate and page numbers identified above. The importance of cuisine has a long and very interesting history among the French. Unsurprisingly, the doctors who conducted Louis XIV's autopsy noted that his stomach was unusually large - three times larger than that of an average adult - and according to historians, multi-course French meals originated long before the Sun King's reign! A stunning piece with outstanding, museum-quality framing. Note that each print is set in five - yes "5" - hand-picked mattes, and the frame boasts an exquisite scalloped, interior edge as well as a lovely golden finish. In a word, elegant! Size of matte openings for each print: 6.7" L x 3.875" W (17 cm x 9.8 cm) Size of frame: 28.75" L x 23.125" W (73 cm x 58.7 cm)

Provenance: private Colorado Collection; Private Collection of a Private Colorado Family

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#166594

Engravings have not been examined outside the frame, but appear to be in excellent condition. Images and inscriptions are vivid. Hand coloring is stunning. Framing is museum quality and complements the theme beautifully. Wired for suspension and ready to display.