This copperplate engraving is a fine example of the school of prints known loosely as ‘Vue d’Optique’. They are a form of perspective view which were popular during the eighteenth century in Europe. They were designed to be viewed through an optical device known as a ‘zograscope’ or ‘optique’. They were published by many different publishers in various cities, this one by M. Berthault who is recorded as having worked with Jean Baptist Louis Clouet. It is a fine bird’s-eye view of the city of Valletta.