Philippe Galle - Passion of Christ in seven Tondi - RRR

Lot description

This extremely rare set, signed P Galleus excud on the circumcision. It seems 'undescribed' in reference works. We were not able to find it in any scientific reference work, nor in any museum inventory. The set of seven prints here on auction appears to come from a non-specialized auction in French countryside . A single print from the series was offered by a specialized German auction house but also without references. Question is if this set of seven prints consists of the whole series. One other set was found in the 'BIBLIOTECA NACIONAL DE ESPAÑA'. Again a set of seven prints and as a fact with the same seven subjects as our set. The format of the sheets, the numbering and the collection mark on one of them makes it clear these are not our prints but a second set. This is a strong indication the set in seven plates is complete. The sequence of the prints with the circumcision and then six prints from the passion with the fructification as the last one surprises, but however the the uniformity with the set in Spain is striking. This makes me believe we have here a final but unfinished set with only this seven plates engraved. ---- The circular prints have a border who makes them look like silver plates, the designs are very loosely similar to the Stradanus series engraved by Collaert and published by Sadeler circa 1580-1587. --- A splendid extremely rare (complete) set.