Gezicht op de Place Neuve van Lodewijk XV
1747 - 1794
Medium
etching
Dimensions
328; 540
About this artwork
height 328 mm x width 540 mm
Art Historical Context
This etching by Gustave Taraval captures a sweeping view of Place Neuve, a grand square honoring King Louis XV of France. Created between 1747 and 1794, the work reflects the eighteenth-century fascination with urban planning and royal commemoration, when European cities developed elegant public spaces to celebrate monarchs and showcase architectural harmony. Taraval employed the etching technique—a precise printmaking method that allowed fine detail and wide distribution—to render the square’s layout, buildings, and open vistas. Etchings like this one played an important cultural role, letti...
About the Artist
Gustave Taraval · 1738–1794
Taraval served as inspector for the Bâtiments du Roi. According to Macmillan, he was influential in the publication of several important architects, including Pierre Contant D'Ivry and Jean François Chalgrin.