Architectural Lithograph Study: St. Hildebert, Gournay - Fragonard 1882 (Plate 105)
£395.00
Description
An exceptional 1822 architectural lithograph, plate Pl. 105, depicting the intricate Romanesque capitals of the Church of St. Hildebert in Gournay-en-Bray, Normandy. This plate is a superb example of the early 19th-century French Romantic movement, where artists sought to document the "forgotten" medieval beauty of the French countryside.
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A Fine Restoration-Era Architectural Study: St. Hildebert, Gournay
Artist: Alexandre-Évariste Fragonard (1780–1850) Dated: 1822
An exceptional 1822 architectural lithograph, plate Pl. 105, depicting the intricate Romanesque capitals of the Church of St. Hildebert in Gournay-en-Bray, Normandy. This plate is a superb example of the early 19th-century French Romantic movement, where artists sought to document the "forgotten" medieval beauty of the French countryside.
The work is dated in the plate Fragonard 1822. It illustrates the remarkable stone-carving heritage of the 12th century, featuring stylised foliage and geometric motifs. The lithographic process captures the tactile, porous quality of the ancient limestone with extraordinary depth.
The print is presented in a Black Ebony frame. The frame provides a crisp, sharp-edge that contrasts beautifully with the 200-year-old paper, creating a bridge between historical importance and interior design.
Alexandre-Évariste Fragonard was a prodigy of the Neoclassical and Romantic eras. This specific work was created for the famous Voyages Pittoresques series—the most ambitious publishing project in French history. Fragonard’s 1822 studies are highly regarded by collectors for their dramatic use of shadow and their ability to make cold stone feel "alive" and atmospheric.
Dealer’s Comment
"While many architectural prints are purely technical, Fragonard brings a painterly eye to this study. The deep blacks and soft greys are characteristic of the best early 19th-century French lithography. Being newly framed in a deep ebony-style moulding, it has an immediate 'gallery-ready' presence. It is a sophisticated choice for an interior that blends antique soul with a modern edge."
Condition Report
The print is in good antique condition, especially considering its 1822 date. The paper retains a healthy weight and the plate marks are crisp. There is very light, uniform age-toning to the margins which serves to confirm its 19th-century origin.
Framed a using a ebony frame. All materials used in the framing are archival to ensure the long-term preservation of the lithograph.
Measurement
Height:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 52 cm /Â Â Â inch
Width:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 42 cm /Â Â Â inch
Depth:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 2 cm /Â Â Â Â inch
Weight:Â Â Â Â Â Â 1.9 k.g. /Â Â lbs
Cleaning, Polishing & Restoration
All our collections have been through our workshop and where possible, we always try to maintain the original finish preserving the patina and colour, some items are sympathetically restored and this is done by our own skilled craftsmen using only traditional methods
