Artwork

A Selection of Twenty of the Most Picturesque Views in Paris, And its Environs: Title Page

A Selection of Twenty of the Most Picturesque Views in Paris, And its Environs: Title Page is a print by the Romanticist artist John Girtin. It dates from 1803 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. The work is the title page of a series titled A Selection of Twenty of the Most Picturesque Views in Paris, and its Environs.

Accession no.: 2006.238
Credit line: Gift of John Bonebrake

About this work

Decorative lines and swirls frame the words, and the name "Thomas Girtin" appears, but the smaller print at the bottom says "Engraved by Jn° Girtin.

This is a title page for a set of prints. The text is fancy and swirly, with big letters saying "Selection of Twenty of the Most Picturesque Views in Paris." The background looks like old paper with a light brown tint.

Decorative lines and swirls frame the words, and the name "Thomas Girtin" appears, but the smaller print at the bottom says "Engraved by Jn° Girtin."

The text mentions these are etchings of Paris scenes, made in 1803. The artist’s name here is confusing because the real creator, John Girtin, was still alive and working.

Check out The Cleveland Museum of Art to see if they have any of these prints.

Overview

The work is the title page of a series titled A Selection of Twenty of the Most Picturesque Views in Paris, and its Environs. Produced as an engraved print in 1803, it serves as the introductory sheet for the collection of landscape etchings that follow. The piece is part of the Cleveland Museum of Art’s holdings.

Subject & Meaning

The page announces a compilation of twenty selected Parisian vistas, emphasizing the city’s aesthetic appeal. Its ornate lettering and decorative borders convey a sense of refinement, inviting viewers to explore the visual tour of Paris and its surroundings that the subsequent prints present.

Technique & Style

Executed as an engraving, the title page features a light brown, paper‑like background over which swirling ornamental motifs frame the bold, stylized title. The artist’s signature appears in a smaller line at the bottom, indicating the work was “Engraved by Jn° Girtin.” The decorative elements reflect early‑19th‑century print design conventions.

History & Provenance

Created in 1803, the title page is attributed to John Girtin, an English artist active at the time. The Cleveland Museum of Art acquired the piece as part of its print and drawing collection, though the exact acquisition date is not specified in the available records.