Translated Print Title:
[View of the Exterior of the Grotto of Versailles]
Series/Book Title:
Description de la Grotte de Versailles
Date(s):
1672
Engraver:
Resource Link:
Vue de la face extérieure de la Grotte de Versailles
Reminiscent of a tripartite triumphal arch, the façade was decorated with reliefs and carved panels. The gilded grilles were designed to mimic rays of light emanating from the centrally positioned head of the sun god. The attic masked a reservoir that fed the water features inside, including a hydraulic organ.
Graphic Arts Collection. Acquired by Princeton in 1886 in an exchange with the Bibliothèque nationale (Paris). John S. Pierson, Class of 1840, effected the exchange, recorded by the BN as “Double échangé” no. 907.