Paris Reflected 1735 – 2024 V1/10

“Paris Reflected 1735 – 2024” presents a digitally restored version of the iconic Turgot Map of Paris, an exquisite cartographic masterpiece from the 18th century, meticulously crafted between 1735 and 1739 by Louis Bretez. This map offers a panoramic view of Paris, capturing the streets, buildings, and landmarks of Paris with unparalleled detail of the time. The map offers a mesmerizing glimpse into the city’s past. The juxtaposition of rich architectural detail and the absence of life in the streets is as well striking. While the streets remain empty, the Seine River teems with activity, where workers and fishermen going about their daily lives. After a while you get captivated by the intricate network of void lines and shapes. When viewed from a slight distance, they coalesce into a grand, abstract representation of the city about 300 years back in time.

Hand-painted with a light blue hue, the Seine River adds a subtle yet impactful dimension to the map, enhancing its realism while preserving its historical integrity. Framed in dark oak, this artwork is a captivating tribute to the enduring legacy of Parisian architecture and city planning.

Through the process of digital restoring and reimagining the Turgot Map, I not only preserve its historical significance but also pay homage to the vision and technical skill of its creators. My contribution to the beauty of this work is the hand-painted Seine – plain and simple, as well as a colour enhancement of the shield. The colour adds a subtle yet impactful dimension to the map, enhancing its realism while preserving its historical integrity. This technique not only highlights the Seine River but also draws the viewer’s attention to its central role in shaping the cityscape of Paris.

Specs, techniques and materials:
Digital restoration: Meticulous restoration of the original Turgot Map etchings, published by Wiki Commons. The original etchings were digitalised by the Boston Library in high resolution.

Digital printing: FineArt print / Giclée to ensure longevity and color accuracy + acrylic UV protection, coated with brush.
Dimensions: Approximately 175 cm (width) x 145 cm (height)
Hand-painted details: Acrylics
Edition: limited to 12 unique versions, all varying in colour and design + 1 AP
Signing: Hand signed by the artist

Framing and glas: The price of the art work does not include framing. Dark oak frame comes without glas. Glas on request.
+ framing 20.000 (box frame, dark oak, comes without glas)
+ museum glas 15.000 (anti-reflect, higher dynamic, 70% UV protection)
+ normal glas 8.000 (more reflections, less contrast, less UV protection)