Norbert Bittner (1786 - 1851 ) after Antonio de Pian (1784 Venice - 1851 Vienna): John of Paris, theatre backdrop with the gloomy corridor of a fortress, c. 1818, Etching

Technique: Etching on Paper

Inscription: At the lower part signed in the printing plate: "N. Bittner f. N. 34 / de Pian invt.". At the lower part inscribed: "Johan v. Paris".

Date: c. 1818

Description: This is an etching showing a church interior in a differentiated architectural depiction. Characterised by a depth of perspective, the ribbed vaults and pointed arch windows, alongside the sacred objects presented at the edge of the picture, make it possible to recognise the Gothic architecture. The play of light between shadow and brightness accentuates the structure of the walls and vaults, evoking a tranquil atmosphere.

Source: Norbert Bittner (1786 -1851 ) Theaterdecorationen nach den Original Skitzen des k.k. Hof Theater Mahlers Anton de Pian, gestochen und verlegt von Norbert Bittner, um, 1818, No. 34 | Theater, Landscape, Architecture

Keywords: Etching; church interior; architectural depiction; depth of perspective; ribbed vault; pointed arch window; Gothic architecture; sacred objects; play of light; shadow; brightness; masonry; vault; atmosphere, 19th century, Romanticism, Architecture, Austria, Vienna,

Size: Paper: 17,5 cm x 21,8 cm (6,9 x 8,6 in), Plate: 13,2 cm x 15,3 cm (5,2 x 6 in)

Defective condition. Foxing visible on the entire sheet. Large liquid stain along the right edge of the sheet. The corners of the sheet are slightly bumped and creased. Individual punctures from an earlier binding along the left edge of the sheet. Some fingerstaining and soiling to the lower margin of the sheet.

17.5 x 21.8 cm