Rare print-series, the first to depict the newly rebuilt Gunterstein estate, a "William and Mary House and Gardens" along the river Vecht, between Amsterdam and Utrecht. Gunterstein (still existing) greatly influenced the development of country estates on the Vecht. The present work was commissioned by the owner of Gunterstein, Magdalena Poulle (1632-1699), and is quite rare. We have only been able to trace four copies in institutions, and two in sales records.
In 1680, Poulle bought the ruins of the old castle which had been destroyed by the French troops in 1672, and became Lady Gunterstein. The new mansion and gardens she built were inspired by the new French-orientated classicist style, as well as the English William and Mary style, unique among the castles and houses along the Vecht. Her orangery was one of the first in the Netherlands to include a greenhouse, as Poulle was an enthusiastic gardener and botanist. The present work includes 15 views of the house and gardens, signed by De Lespine, but likely engraved by Willem Swidde (ca. 1660-1697). The beautiful allegorical title, with Gunterstein in the background, is engraved by Joseph Mulder (1658-1742). Two nearly identical editions of the work are known, one published by Nicolas Visscher and the other by Jean Covens and Corneille Mortier. Neither is dated, so it is unknown which is the first, but both are equally scarce.
The edges and corners of the boards are slightly scuffed, the head and foot of the spine show some traces of wear. The plates, including margins, have been mounted onto the leaves of an album, which are slightly browned. Otherwise in good condition. Hollstein (Dutch & Flemish) XIV, p. 99, 27-42; Hunt & de Jong, The Anglo-Dutch garden, 11; Springer, Bibl. overzicht, p. 45; WorldCat 1520892205, 1012558972 (4 copies); cf. Wurzbach II, p. 202 (on Mulder); this edition not in the STCN.