Birth of the Dauphin: The Crowd Watching the Fireworks on the Place de la Grève, Paris, January 21, 1782 1782 - 1860

This etching by Jean Michel Moreau the Younger depicts the celebration of the birth of the Dauphin in Paris in 1782. The scene shows a large crowd gathered in the Place de la Grève watching a spectacular fireworks display. This print is a record of a public event that marked a significant moment in French history and offers a glimpse into the celebratory practices of the late 18th century. The artist's detailed depiction of the event captures the excitement and grandeur of the occasion. This piece, now in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is an example of the artist's ability to capture the essence of a historical moment through his skillful use of line and composition.