A “Vue d’Optique” of the garden at the Palace of Versailles

An 18th century watercolour print depicting a a view of the garden at the Palace of Versailles. These Vue d’Optique (Perspective View) prints became popular in Europe during the 18th century, and were used like slides, to be projected onto a screen from lenses of “magic lanterns”. The magic lanterns projected the views onto a screen as a Salon's evening entertainment. This hand-coloured print depicts the Palace of Versailles and its grounds and fountains, with figures in elegant costumes and dogs playing. Please note the name "Versailles" written backwards, so as to project it onto a screen.  Area of Paris, circa 1770.

Please note some reflections of chandeliers and lamps on the glass.