Les Vestals

DESCRIPTION: This engraving, titled "Tiré du Cabinet de M. le Brun," depicts a scene titled "Les Vestales" (The Vestals) and is based on an original painting by the Flemish artist Bartolet Flémalle (often credited as "Bartolet"). This print was part of a larger collection of engravings from the cabinet of Jean-Baptiste Pierre Le Brun, a prominent 18th-century French art dealer and critic. The inscription at the bottom indicates it was available in Paris at the shop of Chereau, located on the Rue des Mathurins. Subject Matter: The Vestal Virgins. The scene illustrates a religious procession of the Vestal Virgins, an elite priesthood in ancient Rome dedicated to the goddess Vesta. Temple and Ritual: The background shows a circular building, characteristic of the Temple of Vesta. The priestesses are depicted carrying baskets and offerings, likely for a sacred rite or sacrifice. Symbolism: Above the procession, deities or allegorical figures are seen in the clouds, watching over the ritual. The primary duty of the Vestals was to maintain the eternal flame of Rome, which symbolized the city's safety and prosperity. Bertholet Flémalle was known for his classical and religious subjects; another notable work by him regarding this group is Lucius Albinus Giving his Carriage to the Vestal Virgins. STYLE: Engraving COLOUR: Monochrome SIZE (cm): 19.5 x 19 CREATORS: J De Wit after Bartolet PUBLICATION: PUBLISHER: DATE: C18 COMMENTS: Very good condition. Some patina of age and ragged areas along bottom edge (image unaffected). SUBJECT: Classics & Literature PACKAGE: Single one-sided sheet in acid-free mount, flat & unfolded inside hard-backed envelope. Royal Mail Tracked 24 included. Note: Images are provided for illustration purposes only and are intended to show the complete printed product, including any imperfections of age that may be present. Frames or props shown in the images are for display purposes only and are not included with your purchase.