Monnoyer, Jean-Baptiste

Illustration: 6 (of 8) unbound etched and engraved plates by Monnoyer (each approximately 14 x 11 in.; 351 x 279 mm, deckled edge on three sides). Each plate matted. Buckram clamshell case, green morocco gilt labels on spine and front cover. Provenance: Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (inked stamp "M. F. A.  F. I. in the U. S." in lower margin of each plate).

Some marginal soiling, not affecting images.

Cf. Dunthorne 212; cf. Nissen 1399; cf. An Oak Spring Flora 46 

Some marginal soiling, not affecting images.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Rare. Finely engraved plates by Monnoyer of various bouquets of flowers, each in a vase on a mantle. Dunthorne's second state with an engraved border line.

Jean-Baptiste Monnoyer (1635–1699) set a style of decorative flower painting for the adornment of great French residences including Versailles. Born in Lille, he began his artistic career in Anvers as a student of Davidsz de Heem. After a brief stint painting historical scenes, Monnoyer quickly turned to the painting of flowers and fruit for which he is most famous. In 1655 he moved to Paris, where he found favor among the aristocracy and was employed to paint murals in many of the royal chateaux, including Vincennes, Saint-Cloud, Versailles, the Grand Trianon, and Marly. Monnoyer drew cartoons for tapestries for Gobelins and also engraved prints of vases of flowers. He became a member of the Academy in 1663.

In 1685 Monnoyer accepted an invitation given by the English Ambassador to France, Lord Montague, to decorate Montague House in London. While there, he also worked for Marie II and Queen Anne at Kensington Palace. Monnoyer died in London in 1699.