When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Item Specifics:
• Subject: Traditional Lateen-Sail Merchant Vessel (\"Barque du Léman\")
• Location Depicted: Lake Geneva / Lac Léman (Switzerland / France border)
• Estimated Era: Late 19th Century / Turn of the Century (circa 1890s–1900s)
• Style: Pictorialist / Antique Sepia Landscape Photography
• Format: Matted Vintage Print (Professionally sealed in a protective plastic sleeve)
Description:
Up for sale is a beautiful antique sepia-toned photograph print depicting a traditional \"Barque du Léman\" gliding smoothly across Lake Geneva (Lac Léman).
The image captures the iconic, dramatic crossing of the lateen sails—often referred to as a \"butterfly\" formation—which was entirely characteristic of the historic merchant cargo boats operating between Switzerland and France during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The composition features a stunning, crisp reflection in the water and a smaller rowboat with figures visible in the background.
This stunning piece strongly mirrors the renowned turn-of-the-century maritime photography produced by the Swiss studio Charnaux Frères circa 1890–1900.
While the antique shop inventory tag originally labeled this as \"Lake Como,\" the unique architecture of the vessel and its distinct rigging definitively place this historic scene on Lake Geneva.
Dimensions:
• Total Size (Including Mat): Approximately 15.5 x 13.25\" (Perfect size for immediate, standard framing).
• Please see listing photos with the tape measure for exact edge-to-edge proportions.
Condition:
The print is in excellent vintage condition with rich sepia tones and beautiful contrast. It comes housed in a clean, neutral-toned mat board and remains securely sealed in its protective plastic wrap. No major flaws, tears, or heavy staining are visible.
This makes an exceptional decor piece for any nautical enthusiast, maritime historian, or collector of European travel photography.
Shipping & Handling:
Will be packed with extreme care between heavy sheets of cardboard to ensure it arrives completely flat and undamaged. Please reach out with any questions!
