Gérard Thibault (17th century) “Human proportions and their relation to fencing,” ca. 1630

This original engraving on paper is the first plate from the Académie de l'Espée, one of the most ambitious martial treatises of the early modern period. Published in 1630 with the patronage of King Louis XIII of France and several other European rulers, the work is lavishly illustrated with forty-six double-page plates executed by a team of sixteen Flemish engravers. Considered the most lavish and technically advanced fencing treatise of the early modern period, the book focuses on the use of the rapier based on the “mysterious circle” (or magic circle) and geometric principles to ensure advantage over the opponent.

The work stands out not only for its fencing technique, but also for the artistic precision and design of its engravings, considered among the most beautiful and complex of the period.

Restored at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

Size: 63.5 x 84.5 cm; Size with frame: 67.5 x 88.5 cm