Rare 19th Century Hand-Colored Lithograph of J. B. Arnout’s “Vue de la Fontaine Moliѐre” Paris 11″ x 15.25″

This rare hand-colored lithograph from the mid-1800s features a Paris scene with the Moliere Fountain (“Vue de la Fontaine Moliere”) as its centerpiece.  The print has a treasure-trove of information at the bottom: (1) Drawn from nature and lithographed by J. B. Arnout; (2) paper watermark: Canson Freres; (3) Publisher: F. Sinnett, 10 Rotonde, Passage Colbert [with embossed seal, bottom center]; (4) Printer: Jules Rigo et Cie.; (5) Paris: British Repository of Arts, 28, rue de Rivoli [Frederick Sinnett’s business name for the English-speaking tourist trade; and (6) London: Published by Gambart Junin et Co. 25, Berner’s St.  (I don’t know what the handwritten numbers, bottom right, refer to.  I bought this from a collector’s estate; the owner had the unfortunate habit or writing on the prints, so the numbers aren’t original.)  The print is incredibly detailed and brightly colored, with well-defined areas of light and shadow.  The scene is one of bustling activity with people and horse-drawn conveyances.  Even the inscription and date on the fountain (built in 1844 but with the Roman numeral expressed incorrectly on the print!) are legible.  Along the left margin there’s a “perruquier” (wig maker) sign.  Based on the clues provided on the print itself and further research, we can safely say that the image was both drawn and lithographed by J. B. Arnout some time after 1844 and before his 1857 retirement; Jules Rigo, the printer, sold his business in 1847.  It would be reasonable to date the print to between the mid- to late 1840s.  It measures 11″ x 15.25″ and is in overall good condition (from observation; not a professional grade) with no tears.  There’s foxing and other discoloration, particularly around the perimeter where an inadequate mat left its shadow, as well as old tape remnants on the back–priced accordingly.  Ready for framing.  Additional historical notes below.