Print, Engraving on Paper, THE DESCENT OF THE AIR BALLOON

Engraved print titled "The Descent of the Air Balloon, December 1st, 1783." Print depicts the Montgolfier's air balloon, after a magnificent ascent and flight, falling down near a rural cottage. The country residents were frightened and surprised by the crash. They were also astonished by the fact that the Cock, Sheep, and the Duck exited the wicker basket in which they had been suspended and all three were relatively unhurt. A young child looks out from a top window, and a monkey in a tree overlooks the situation. A religious figure approaches the scene of the accident with caution, brandishing a crucifix and a bible.