Bidspirit auction | Johann Heinrich Schawberg (1717–1760) –

Johann Heinrich Schawberg (1717–1760) – Antique Engraving – ”De Sint-Michielsabdij te Antwerpen” (1737) - This impressive 1737 engraving by J. Schawberg presents a highly detailed view of St. Michael’s Abbey in Antwerp, a historically significant Benedictine monastery. The abbey, originally founded in 1124, played a crucial role in religious, cultural, and scholarly life in Antwerp before its dissolution during the French occupation at the end of the 18th century.The bird's-eye perspective meticulously captures the grand architectural layout of the abbey complex, including its church, cloisters, gardens, and surrounding cityscape along the Scheldt River. Ornamental cartouches frame the composition, one dedicating the work to Franciscus Ignatius de Lams, the abbot at the time, and another providing a focused architectural depiction of the monastery's entrance.The engraving exemplifies the baroque cartographic tradition, serving as both an artistic masterpiece and a historical document that preserves the grandeur of an institution that no longer exists.Artist or Maker:Johann Heinrich SchawbergMedium:Engraving on paperDate:1737Dimensions:58 cm × 38 cmCondition Description:This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.