Pas de l’Echelle c1864 France Mont Saleve Alpine Cliff Path Lithograph

Description

Pas de l’Echelle on Mont Saleve in Haute-Savoie France in an antique lithograph dating from circa 1864. This mountain view depicts a steep passage cut into the rock, overlooking the broad landscape towards Geneva.

The cliffside path is the central subject of the composition. Its narrow course follows the rugged mountainside, contrasting with the open panorama beyond. Figures along the passage give scale to the rock formations and bring a human presence to this dramatic setting.

The view combines two distinct perspectives: the close detail of the rocky ascent and the expansive landscape below. The eye follows the mountain path before moving towards the distant plain. This contrast between enclosed passage and open countryside gives the composition much of its depth and visual appeal.

The lithographic treatment conveys the irregular surfaces of the rock and the changing contours of the terrain. Differences in tone separate the nearer cliffs from the distant landscape, emphasising the elevated viewpoint. The figures help the viewer appreciate both the height of the site and the scale of its natural surroundings.

This nineteenth-century print offers several collecting themes: Mont Saleve, the Pas de l’Echelle, Haute-Savoie, mountain paths and Alpine landscapes. It will appeal to collectors of French topographical prints as well as those interested in historic representations of mountain travel.

Reference: 5400-49R790.
Date: circa 1864.
Technique: lithograph on paper.
Subject: Pas de l’Echelle on Mont Saleve in Haute-Savoie France.
Sheet dimensions: 41.5 × 30.3 cm.
Image dimensions: 31.7 × 22.5 cm.

Condition: good overall condition. The photographs form an integral part of the description.

A decorative antique mountain view combining a dramatic rocky passage, small figures and an extensive panorama, well suited to framing.