Pair of framed engravings illustrating Voltaire's play, Zaire. The first scene features a young woman playing the lute, the second shows men playing music and dancing. They illustrate the alexandrines from scene 1 of Act 1 of the play: "Receive this incense that is due to your eyes, Companions of a husband, and queens everywhere, free without dishonor and wise without constraint, and never owing their virtues to fear." The plot takes place in Jerusalem in the 13th century, during the Crusades: Sultan Orosmane falls in love with the Christian captive Zaire, a Christian raised in Islam, but whom the Crusaders wish to free. In this play, Voltaire denounces the prejudices associated with religion. This play was a success from its first performances. Each engraving contains the following inscriptions: "Franc Maggiotto pinx, Franc Pedroinc apud Nucus Cavalli Venetiis" As is: stains, foxing, and creases Not examined without frame Framed dimensions: 56 x 46cm Unframed dimensions: 46.5 x 37cm This piece has an attribution mark, I am sure that it is completely authentic and take full responsibility for any authenticity issues arising from misattribution