﻿ Tardieu Espoir
Isaac and Ede Antique Prints
Tardieu Espoir

P. Tardieu after Kimli.

L'Espoir de Retour.

10 x 13 inches

A scarce etching by Tardieu after the painting by the French artist Kimli; published in Paris circa 1790.

In this charming etching a well-dressed aristocratic lady contemplates the return of her handsome beau. Upon her lap rests a miniature portrait of the missing gentleman whilst her right-hand gestures towards a love letter or billet-doux that lies discarded upon the couch. Not only does this print demonstrate the extravagance of Eighteenth-Century aristocratic dress but it also highlights the significance of miniature portraits and written correspondence in the courting process.


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