Ancient Monument at Mornas — Bence

An evocative hand-coloured lithograph of the medieval ruins crowning the cliffs of Mornas in Provence, capturing the romantic allure of historical decay.

Original title: Vue de l'ancien Monument de Mornas. Drawn by Bence; engraved by Nouelle and Lorriaux. From Voyage Pittoresque de la France. Paris, c. 1788.

Jean-Benjamin de La Borde's Voyage Pittoresque de la France (1781–1796) was the most ambitious topographical survey of the ancien régime, bringing together leading draughtsmen and engravers to document the kingdom's monuments. The fortified ruins of Mornas, perched above the Rhône, were prized by Enlightenment travellers as emblems of medieval power and the picturesque sublime.

Hand-coloured lithograph. Sheet approximately 59.3 × 42.8 cm. Very Good condition with light age toning.