Désiré Mergaert (1829-1890): Two sketchbooks of his Italy trip, mixed media on paper, third quarter 19th C.

Oblong.

14,3 x 10 cm

The Belgian painter Désiré Mergaert (1829-1890) was the winner of the prestigious 'Prix de Rome' in 1854. These rare sketchbooks (approx. 40 pages each; 80 sides) contain drawings related to his journey to Rome in the mid-19th C. (1857-1862), more than likely related to his victory (link). Nice ensemble.