"Ludovicus XVI. Franciae et nav. rex."

Engr., 32,2 x 44,5 cm, b/w (sl. soiled margins). Very clear impression.

Rare engraving by the German G.B. Probst which shows the French King Louis XVI inspecting the troops ready to embark for America. In the background a panoramic view of most probably the city of Brest with its citadel, castle, etc. In 1780, 6000 men embarked in Brest as an expeditionary force. The king committed France to playing a strategic role in the war which the North American colonies were fighting against Great Britain.