Bilder Bernard de Montfaucon (1655–1741) – Various Sacrificial Instruments – Engraving (1719)

Beskrivning

This illustration presents a study of ancient ritual objects under the heading Instrumens des Sacrifices. The plate features three bronze busts or vessels depicting human heads, likely functioning as situlae or ritual containers, each fitted with a large swinging handle. Additionally, the engraving includes a circular implement with a short handle, possibly a patera or a mirror, documented from various historical collections. This work is part of the monumental publication L'antiquité expliquée et représentée en figures, a ten-volume visual encyclopedia designed to document the physical remains, religious customs, and daily life of the ancient world through systematic classification.

Bernard de Montfaucon was a French Benedictine monk and a pioneering scholar in the fields of archaeology and paleography. He is best known for his massive project, L'antiquité expliquée, which organized thousands of ancient artifacts into a comprehensive visual record for a European audience. Montfaucon’s methodology of using high-quality engravings based on direct observation of objects in various royal and private cabinets established a new standard for scientific research. His work bridges the gap between traditional classical studies and modern archaeological practice, and his extensive corpus of knowledge remained a primary reference for historians and artists throughout the eighteenth century.

Artist or Maker: Bernard de Montfaucon.

Dimensions: Approximately 42 cm x 27 cm.

Medium: Engraving.

Date: 1719.

Condition Report:
This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.