This copperplate engraving is a fine example of the school of prints known loosely as ‘Vue d’Optique’. They are most easily recognised by there consistent dimensions and style with notable blue wash skies. They are a form of perspective view which were popular during the eighteenth century in Europe. They were designed to be viewed through an optical device known as a ‘zograscope’ or ‘optique’, and were issued by many different publishers in various cities. This one is by Paul-Andre Basset who is part of an extensive family of print publishers in Paris. It is a fine bird’s-eye view of Covent Garden flower market. It began in a small manner in 1649 but following the Great Fire of London in 1666 which destroyed the markets in the City grew considerably. By the 1760s the market occupied much of the square.