Offering To Priapus – Color Stipple Engraving After Callet, Ca. 1800

AFTER ANTOINE-FRANÇOIS CALLET (1741–1823)

Offering to Priapus (Offrande à Priape)

French School, late 18th – early 19th century.

Colour stipple engraving, possibly incorporating aquatint effects, after a composition by Antoine-François Callet (1741–1823).

Engraving begun by P. Las and completed by Villeneuve, as indicated in the inscription.

Published in Paris by Bonneville, rue Saint-Jacques, No. 195.

Dimensions: 35 × 25 cm
With frame: 49 × 38 cm

This elegant mythological composition depicts a young woman making an offering to Priapus, the ancient god of fertility. Partially draped and accompanied by three playful putti, she stands before a sculpted image of the deity in a lush garden setting.

The subject reflects the taste for gallant mythological scenes in late 18th-century French art, combining classical references with sensuality and decorative refinement.

The engraving is distinguished by its delicate stippled technique, creating subtle tonal transitions in the flesh, draperies and landscape. The finely textured darker areas may also suggest the use of aquatint, while the carefully rendered outlines reveal the combination of tonal and linear engraving techniques.

The soft colouring enhances the atmospheric quality of the composition.

Presented in an antique green and gilt frame with a decorative mount.