Bal Chinois donne par l’empereur u…

Rare C18th vue d’optique of an annual ‘ball’ given by the Chinese Emperor.

During the C18th “vues d’optique” became extremely popular in England and Europe. They capitalised on a market eager for the latest novelty. They were specifically designed to create the illusion of perspective when viewed with a zograscope or perspective glass. These viewing devices used a series of reflecting mirrors to enhance the illusion of depth in the print.