1876 Chromolithograph State Chariot Mars Hymen Rococo Horses Godess XGGA9

This is an original 1876 two-color chromolithograph depicting the chariots of Roman deities Mars and Hymen. Mars was the Roman god of war, and Hymen was the Roman god of marriage ceremonies. Although one would expect such mythical figures to go hand in hand with the late 18th century Neoclassicism style, their chariots appear to be more late Baroque or Rococo than anything else. Each chariot is pulled by eight horses.

Please note that there is a circular blind emboss mark which measures 1.5" in diameter in the lower right corner.

The chromolithograph process is a planographic (flat surface, as opposed to raised or relief) printing method, which is employed in creating multiple colored prints. The technique involves drawing an image onto a stone or zinc plate with a grease-based crayon. The stone is then gummed with gum arabic and nitric acid. Then, the stone is inked with oil-based paints and run through a printing press in conjunction with a sheet of paper, which is used to transfer the image onto the paper. Color is added by utilizing a separate stone to draw where the color is to be applied. It then passes through the printing press with a separate sheet of paper to which it is transferred. If a particular artwork employs a variety of colors, it is not unusual for up to 25 stones to be used in the process. Each piece of paper will run through the printing press for each individual color needed. Dependent on the detail, care and amount of colors, each print may take skilled workers several months to create. However, the opposite is also true, if the prints do not employ a great number of colors or detail the product may be easily mass produced in a more cost and time effective manner.

CONDITION

This 135+ year old Item is rated Near Mint / Very Fine. Light aging throughout. No creases. No natural defects. Light scuffing. No tears. No water damage. Please note that there is part of a blind emboss in the bottom right corner and a small mark near the center of the image.

• Product Type: Original Chromolithograph; Two Color
• Grade: Near Mint / Very Fine
• Dimensions: Approximately 8.75 x 6.5 inches; 22 x 17 cm
• Authentication: Serial-Numbered Certificate of Authenticity w/ Full Provenance
• Protection: Packaged in a custom archival sleeve with an acid-free black board (great for display, gift-giving, and preservation)

Period Paper is thrilled to offer items from an artistically illustrated collection of eighteenth century France. These stunning artworks encompass native customs, social activities, military personnel, historic ships, famous figures, stunning costumes, historic landmarks, weaponry and more between the years of 1700 and 1789. To view more images from this portfolio, please click on the link offered below the condition paragraph.

Keywords specific to this image: extravagant, equestrian

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