Le Concert agreable

1784. Engraving. Proof before title and publication details, state ii/iii. In excellent condition with the exception of two mended tears in the upper and lower margins. Image size: 13 7/8 x 16 7/8. A charming scene of an idyllic musical afternoon, by the famous miniature artist Nicolas Lavreince.

This is a stunning proof impression of this beautiful print by Varin after Nicolas Lavreince. The scene depicts an elegantly dressed group enjoying a musical afternoon. The seated guitar player and standing woman with a mandolin (?) share an intense gaze. Lavreince (1737-1807) was a Swedish miniature painter who trained and worked in Paris until the onset of the Revolution when he returned to Stockholm. Lavreince's pleasant scene of carefree aristocrats enjoying a day in the country is perfectly translated into print by Varin. In its decorative subject and delicate execution "Le Concert agreeable" embodies the character of Rococo art.

Le Blanc, Manuel de L'Amateur D'Estampes Vol. III, p. 94, No. 20 ii/ii; Portalis Et Beraldi, Les Graveurs Du Dix-Huitieme Siecle Vol. III, P. 610; Nevill, French Prints of the Eighteenth Century p. 167, No. 1 ii/iii.