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 the Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano in Rome and is much the same today as it is in the view.