Charles Le BRUN (1619-1690), Emperor Constantine's Battle on the Mulvian Bridge near Rome against Emperor Maxence 321 AD. (titled "Bataille de Constantin contre le tyrant Maxence"), 1715

Copperplate, paper, 29.5 x 61 cm; signed l.d.: "Carol.le Brun inv" and p.d.: "N.Tardieu excudit 1715". Duplicated in 19th century, damage to one corner and chipping of upper margin - both without damage to composition.

Emperor Constantine held the victorious battle of Rome on d. 28 X 312 A.D. with his rival to the throne, Emperor Maxentius, described as "tyrant" in the title of the print. Constantine is the first Roman emperor who embraced Christianity and built Constantinople, known today as Istanbul. He also fought against the Sarmatian tribes of eastern Europe, among others.

The graphic was made by N.Tardieux (1674-1749). A version of the 1666 print is offered at the Mefferdt antique shop in Amsterdam for 3700 Eu. The British Museum and the Geneva Art Museum have this version of the print.