1721 Copper Engraving Portrait Francis Duke Anjou Alencon France Monarchy EUM2

This is an original 1721 black and white copper engraving of "Franciscus Herzog von Alencon." This is a portrait of Francis, Duke of Anjou and Alençon, the youngest son of Henry II of France and Catherine de' Medici. The portrait is surrounded by a wonderful decorative motif mimicking a frame against a wonderfully etched background. It features two lions flanking a cherub resting above an angelic face at the top of the print. From the corners appears a cascading grape vine design that flows downward, undulating past two grotesque heads, and framing the sides of the portrait. Upon the base of the frame two dragons sit at the corners, while an ornate, broach-like oval is found in the center, flanked by two additional cherubs. CONDITIONThis 290+ year old Item is rated Very Fine +++. Light foxing and aging. No creases. No natural defects.No surface rub.No tears. Light moisture wrinkling - center. Please note: There is a plate impression bordering the image in this print. Product T