c. 1820 Théodore de Jolimont Drawing of the Pont de Carignan, Genoa

An exceptional early 19th-century architectural drawing depicting the Pont de Carignan in Genoa, Italy, attributed to French artist François-Gabriel-Théodore Basset de Jolimont (1787–1854). Executed in delicate graphite, the work captures the extraordinary urban landscape surrounding Genoa’s historic Carignan bridge, its enormous arches rising above densely built streets, multi-story residences and figures moving through the city below. The minute architectural details and tiny figures give the composition the intimacy of a travel sketch while preserving a fascinating view of early 19th-century Genoa. An inscription on the reverse reads “Dessin de Jolimont — Vue du Pont de Carignan à Gênes. V. 1820,” translating to “Drawing by Jolimont — View of the Pont de Carignan in Genoa, circa 1820.” Théodore de Jolimont was a French draftsman, painter, watercolorist, lithographer and writer known particularly for recording architecture, historic monuments and picturesque sites. His career coincided with a growing early-19th-century interest in documenting historic buildings and landscapes, making this subject especially characteristic of his work. The Pont de Carignan itself was one of Genoa’s remarkable urban engineering works. Rather than crossing a river, the great multi-arched bridge connected elevated portions of the city and towered above buildings constructed in the valley beneath it—a dramatic relationship clearly visible in Jolimont’s drawing. Presented under glass with a warm neutral mat, rust-colored inner border and a beautifully worn antique giltwood frame retaining exceptional patina, losses and age throughout. Condition: Antique condition with toning, fading and minor marks to the paper consistent with approximately two centuries of age. The gilt frame exhibits substantial authentic surface wear, scratches, losses and exposed underlayers. These elements are retained as part of the piece's history. Dating: Circa 1820. Artist: Attributed to François-Gabriel-Théodore Basset de Jolimont, 1787–1854. Dimensions: 20 x 17.5