La Décoration et du Feu d'Artifice... la Naissance de Monseigneur le Daufin (Fireworks Celebrating the Birth of the Dauphin)
1782
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1782
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This print shows a grand fireworks display lighting up a dark night sky over a city street. At the center, a temporary stage holds a small temple-like structure with statues and a fountain. Crowds of people stand below, watching the show. The fireworks burst in swirling patterns, casting bright spots on the buildings and stage. The title tells us this celebrates a royal birth in 1782. The artist used a mix of etching and wash techniques to create the dramatic lighting effects. Next, look up etching to see how artists like Nicolle made detailed prints.
