Nicholas DeLaunay copperplate engraving after Fragonard "La Bonnie Mere" 18th century hand-colored

A masterpiece of 18th-century French printmaking, this exquisite copperplate engraving by Nicolas de Launay is based on the painting of the same name by Jean-Honoré Fragonard, exhibited at the Paris Salon in 1779. The motif depicts an intimate mother-and-child scene in Fragonard's characteristically vivid and emotional depiction.

The fine engraving bears the original inscription in the plate: "Peint par Fragonard Peintre du Roi / Gravée par N. De Launay Graveur du Roi," which underscores the high esteem in which both artists were held at the French royal court. The print was advertised contemporaneously in the Journal de Paris (November 28, 1779) and the Mercure (January 1780). The print was hand-colored.

The work measures 58 x 44 cm and features a wide margin around the platemark, underscoring its high collector's value. The elegant framing stylishly showcases the copperplate engraving and makes it an impressive eye-catcher for lovers of classical art.

A rare, historically significant collector's item – ideal for art connoisseurs and lovers of 18th-century French prints.