Late 19th - Historic Engraving of Loches Castle with Pastoral Scene - French Loire Valley Château Art - K. Girardet

This evocative late 19th century engraving captures the majestic Château de Loches, a historic fortress nestled in the picturesque Loire Valley of France. The detailed artwork showcases the castle's formidable keep and surrounding structures, emphasizing its impressive scale against a dramatic sky with birds in flight.

In the foreground, a serene pastoral scene unfolds, featuring various animals such as goats and deer grazing peacefully. Several figures are also visible, some resting under the shade of a large, leafy tree, adding a sense of everyday life and tranquility to the grand architectural landscape. The engraving style is typical of its era, characterized by intricate line work and a strong play of light and shadow, creating a captivating depth. The inscription 'Loches' clearly identifies the iconic French landmark depicted. The artists involved are noted as K. Girardet, who delineated the original drawing and Whitehead, who engraved it.