Early 19th Century Wall Decorations

Antique print titled 'Corte della Sala di Udienza'. Small print of the Imperial Hall of Audience in Beijing (or Peking), China. This print originates from 'Il costume antico e modern...

Antique map titled 'A New Map of the Circle of Swabia'. Antique map of Swabia in Southwestern Germany. Covers from the Upper Rhine region south as far as Switzerland, Lake Constance ...

A rediscovered small oil painting of a fishing boat leaving Calais Harbour by E W Cooke, depicting a fishing boat from Trouville battling stormy seas as it a...

Antique print titled 'Man van Nieuw-Zeeland'. This print depicts a man of New Zealand. Originates from 'Reizen rondom de Waereld' by J. Cook. Translated by J.D. Pasteur. Published by...

Portrait Miniature of a young girl, Signed Corno 1817 The large oval miniature within a gold frame and raised hanging loop depicts a young girl fac...

Rare Early 19th century Capriccio view of Rio de Janeiro Painting Probably painted circa 1810 by one of Jean-Baptiste Debret, Italian Students. Painted on Sailcloth. Historical Context of Early 19th Century Portuguese Colonial Brazil 1.1 Transition from Colony to Empire During the early 19th century, Brazil underwent a seismic shift in its political status. Originally a colony under the Portuguese Empire, the arrival of the Portuguese Royal Court in Rio de Janeiro in 1808 rapidly elevated the city’s cultural and political importance. By 1815, Brazil was declared a kingdom united with Portugal, setting the stage for the emergence of the Empire of Brazil in 1822. This period of transformation—often termed the transitional period from colony to empire—fueled a wave of artistic production in cities like Rio de Janeiro. 1.2 European Artistic Influence in Brazil With the French Artistic Mission in Rio (initiated in 1816) and the presence of various Portuguese and European artists, Brazilian art of the early 1800s began to reflect diverse influences, from neoclassical painting to the early rumblings of romanticism. Painters such as Jean-Baptiste Debret, and Nicolas-Antoine Taunay, and local luminaries like Manuel de Araújo Porto-Alegre contributed to the fine arts tradition in Brazil. Their works featured scenes of local life, portraits of Brazilian society, and imaginative vistas—sometimes referred to as “capriccios,” in which real elements were combined with artistic liberties to create an idealized panorama. 1.3 Rio de Janeiro as Cultural and Political Hub Rio de Janeiro, often called the Imperial capital after Brazil’s independence, was home to foundational institutions like the Imperial Academy of Fine Arts (Academia Imperial de Belas Artes). Later evolving into the Escola de Belas Artes (School of Fine Arts in Rio), these academies nurtured the talents of emerging painters, who found patronage under the Royal Court and, subsequently, the Imperial Court. The city’s significance was further enhanced by the construction of significant buildings, the modernization of infrastructure, and the mingling of European courtly customs with the traditions of local inhabitants. . Description of the Octagonal Oil on Canvas: A Capriccio View of Rio de Janeiro 2.1 Composition and Layout The most striking characteristic of this 19th-century Brazilian art piece is its octagonal shape, a relatively unusual format that draws the viewer’s gaze toward its centre. The composition showcases Rio de Janeiro’s shoreline in the early 1800s, brimming with merchant ships and smaller boats anchored near the shore. On the sand, there is a bustling crowd of local people—men and women carrying food and goods on their heads, loading and unloading boats, and engaging in everyday commerce. The backdrop of soaring mountains suggests Rio’s iconic topography, embodying the landscape that famously defines the city. 2.2 Architectural and Religious Landmarks On the left side, one can discern the silhouette of a church believed to be Santa Lucia, a significant religious structure in the heart of early 19th-century Rio. This element provides viewers with a tangible reference point, linking the scene to an actual location. However, because this painting is labelled as a “capriccio,” the artist might have taken creative liberties by rearranging or amplifying certain features of the city. The melding of real and idealized elements is characteristic of these imaginative vistas. 2.3 Evoking Daily Life in Colonial Rio One of the painting’s greatest appeals lies in its portrayal of daily life during the colonial era. Men and women from various backgrounds populate the scene. Some appear to be carrying goods on their heads, a common practice in Brazil that has persisted through different centuries. Others appear to be haggling or trading near small vessels, revealing the commercial pulse of an active port city. This focus on local people, combined with the grandeur of merchant ships, captures the tension and synergy between the every day and the extraordinary—a hallmark of Brazilian colonial painting that balances the grand narratives of empire with the rhythms of ordinary life. 2.4 An Amalgamation of Neoclassical and Romantic Influences Although academic art in early 19th century Brazil was highly influenced by neoclassicism, the onset of romanticism can be spotted in the emotional portrayal of the sky, the lively palette, and the dramatic emphasis on nature’s beauty (the mountains, in particular). This duality reflects the fine arts tradition in Brazil during the transitional phase when artists were embracing multiple styles. As part of the School of Rio or the Rio de Janeiro school, painters often integrated academic techniques learned from European masters with emerging local subjects and influences. 3. Institutions and Artistic Movements 3.1 Imperial Academy of Fine Arts Originally known as the Royal School of Sciences, Arts, and Crafts, the Imperial Academy of Fine Arts in Rio de Janeiro was instrumental in shaping 19th-century Brazilian art. Influential artists and teachers from Portugal, France, and other European nations congregated at the Academy, imparting their expertise to native students. As the monarchy consolidated power, the Academy enjoyed royal patronage, leading to the creation of Imperial Academy-style works that combined European academic rigour with Brazilian-themed subject matter. 3.2 Impact of the French Artistic Mission The French Artistic Mission, which arrived in 1816, played a pivotal role in introducing advanced European artistic techniques, thereby elevating the overall quality of painting in Brazil. Artists like Jean-Baptiste Debret not only documented Brazilian society but also spearheaded the development of a local visual identity that aligned with both academicism and the national context of a blossoming empire. Debret, alongside others such as Nicolas-Antoine Taunay, mentored Brazilian artists, sowing the seeds of what would become the Brazilian academic art movement. 3.3 Religious, Historical, and Landscape Paintings In addition to everyday scenes and historical compositions, religious iconography remained crucial throughout Portuguese colonial and imperial Brazil. Churches were omnipresent in cityscapes like Rio de Janeiro. Many colonial-era Brazilian portraits...

A stunning original engraving from The Lilies (Les Liliaceés) by P.J. Redouté, considered the greatest botanical artist of all time. Produced between 1802 and 1816 under the patron...

Kano School painting, in mineral pigments and gold leaf on mulberry paper with a silk brocade border. Artist seal reads: Hokkyo Unsen.

Manner of George Chinnery (English, 1774-1852), a softly rendered portrait of a young woman, unsigned, in carved and gilded wood frame A remnant "...R. Davy, Colourman to Artists, 83, Newman Street, London" label on verso. Christie's inventory tags also on verso. A little gem of a portrait, this painting also contains lovely details such as a flower adorning the young woman's hair, a pink shawl draped on the chair, and an ornate gilt mirror with candelabra visible in the background. Robert Davy (c.1771-1843) established his business in the 1790s. He began his career as a carver and gilder...

Esquisse des principales hauteurs des deux continens dressée par Mr. de Göthe,... d'après l'ouvrage de Mr. de Humboldt, publié en 1807 sous le titre d'Essai sur la géographie des plantes Goethe, Johann Wolfgang von (1749-1832). Cartographer Using information from: Humboldt, Alexander von (1769-1859) 32 x 27 cm on a leaf measuring 47 x 55 cm. Extremely rare example of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s comparative chart to depict the relative height of mountains, thus defining a cartographic style that would flourish throughout the remainder of the 19th century. This map is extremely scarce. It was issued and sold independently in Paris, 1813. Beginning in 1805, Goethe gave lectures on natural sciences to a group of Weimar women on Wednesday mornings. The audience included the Duchess Luise, Schiller's widow Charlotte and her sister Caroline von Wolzogen. Here Goethe used his image of heights on April 1, 1807 for the first time. A copy was sent to Alexander von Humboldt...

Very large embossed brass wall hanging charger, Vandick. This is a Large wall piece the charger is made in beaten brass and celebrates the Artist...

Title: Rare 1753 William Hogarth "The Bathos" Satirical Print - A Collector's Gem Description: Dive into the captivating world of 18th-century satire with this rare 1753 print, "The...

Antique Georgian Applique Embroidery depicting a country scene. The embroidery is worked in a variety of threads and materials, on a felt-like ground. Figures faces and hands are wor...

Hand drawn and tinted engraved map of China dated 1815 Created for Thomson's New General Atlas Edinburgh Beautifully framed with a linen covered mat.

This is a lovely pair of watercolor paintings of two young children by British portrait painter James Ramsay (1789-1854). One depicts a little girl clutching her kitten and the othe...

A very fine French 18th-19th century oil on canvas portrait of a posing lady with flowers, after Jean-Marc Nattier (1685-1766) within an ornate gilt wood carved frame, circa 1800. ...

British Botanical Watercolor of Tulips, 19th century The beautifully framed and matted botanical watercolor depicts seven different tulips. Dim...

Pair of 19th century Hand Carved and Hand Painted corbels with later finish.

Antique miniature oil painting of Perseus and Andromeda on papier mache. Extraordinary detail. Probably German. Early 19th century in a ...

Rare and extraordinary and early pair of Neoclassical plaques. One having a cast and painted Bacchic relief plaque with putti joining Pan drinking from a jar. The antique plaques m...

Otto Bache 1839-1927. Danish realist painter. A summer day from the artist's living room with a view of the garden in full bloom. Oil on canvas. Signed Otto Bache 1904. Danish Rea...

American Steel Engraving of General George Washington "Before the Battle of Trenton" By John Trumbull Under Original Wavy Glass and Thirteen Starred Gilt Frame, Early 19th Century. T...

Bamboo in moonlight Gamo Rakan (1784-1866) Hanging scroll, ink on silk. Dimensions: Scroll: 201 cm x 58 cm Image: 137 cm x 45 cm In this early 19th century work by Gamo Rakan a light ink wash applied to the silk background silhouettes the moon and suggests the atmosphere of early evening. Even though it is a literati subject, Rakan’s bamboo is quite realistic with a strong decorative style. The painting finds its inspiration from Chinese Ming dynasty painters who often used a single-tone, jet black stroke to emphasize the calligraphic nature of bamboo. In a different era, decorative would have been seen as somewhat unrefined. But increasingly in the Edo period, it was the hallmark of high style. The Japanese people, in particular the rising merchant class, had gradually become apathetic toward the traditional Sesshu and Kano schools of painting. Chinese professional and amateur painters living in the port of Nagasaki during the 18th century had a profound effect on Japanese painting and the freshness of their style and its decorative appeal contributed greatly to its popularity. Gamo Rakan’s teacher, Tani Buncho...

Charming early 19th century fine quality British oil on board; small painting with a lot going on; subject matter. rural scene of two young boys frolicking on white horseback down by...

A charming 19th century Swedish portrait of a smart looking lady. Oil on canvas in the original pinewood frame.

The two 19th century engravings of the town of Naestved and Estate of Herlufsholm are hand-colored and dated circa 1820s. The engravings are made by Heinrich Gustav Ferdinand Holm, ...

This 19th-century oil on board still life by Johan Laurentz Jensen (Danish, 1800–1856) features a stunning composition of flowers. The work is masterfully rendered, with delicately p...

Title: Antique Botanical Print of Banana Shrub and Starry Wild Jasmine, 1803 This title accurately reflects the plant subjects depicted in the illustration: the Banana Shrub (Fig. 1, showing the seed pod) and the Starry Wild Jasmine (Fig. 2, showing the flower in bloom). This antique engraving from April 23, 1803, beautifully illustrates two botanical figures, emphasizing the natural beauty and complexity of plant life. Here's what makes these illustrations unique and special: 1. Botanical Detail: Fig. 1 shows a plant section with a dark, almost wilted appearance, possibly representing the fruiting body or a seed pod, which contrasts with the lively and vibrant Fig. 2, depicting a flower in bloom. This juxtaposition captures both the end and the beginning of life cycles in the plant kingdom, showcasing the botanical accuracy and attention to detail that was essential in early scientific illustrations. 2. Artistic Technique: The illustration is a fine example of handcolored copperplate engraving, a method that requires exceptional skill. This technique allows for precise details and subtle gradations of color, qualities that make antique botanical prints highly valued by collectors and art enthusiasts alike. 3. Historical and Educational Value: Published by W. Curtis at St. George Crescent in 1803, this work is part of a larger series that aimed to educate and inform about the diversity of plant species. Such prints are crucial for understanding how plants were studied and classified in the early 19th century, providing insight into the history of botany and scientific illustration. 4. Collectibility: Due to their age, artistic merit, and the detailed craftsmanship, prints like these are sought after by collectors of antique botanical art...

Possibly made to be used as a model or mold to cast an iron fireback. Depicting the Bastille and a woman with the sword and the scales. Also cannons, flags, cannon balls.

Antique Print - Soldiers at Rio de la Plata, Eastern Beach - Ferrario-Bonatti 1821 This vibrant hand-colored etching, titled "Soldiers of the Eastern Beach of the Rio de la Plata Re...

Kano school painting of a pheasant in a snowy pine. Artist signature reads: Hokkyo Shunyo. Mineral pigments on gold leaf with silk brocade border.  

Dance of the Bayadères – Sonnerat Engraving Depicting Indian Temple Dancers, 1806 This lively engraving titled *Danse des Bayadères* (Dance of the Bayadères) is plate number 9 from ...

An early 19th Century very fine quality Large French Tapestry . Measures: 7' wide x 10'11'' long. Tapestries make integral part of the Flemish cultural heritage. Most of the tapestries have religious, mythological and historical subjects as well as hunting and harvest scenes. They are known for their high quality and extended use of colors. The oldest ones were made in the 13th century. The most important production centers were Doornik and Arras. These two centers got a lot of assignments of the Dukes of Burgundy. In the 14th century tapestries...

An antique bronze bell reclaimed from an English church marked to F Baker. Dating to circa 1830, this historic bronze has a beautiful patina complimented by its original wrought iro...

We present you this rare and stunning marine oil painting dating back from the early 19th century. The painting captures a lively scene from Villerville, a coastal town in the French...

Quality antique Victorian rosewood banjo barometer, having a shaped wheel barometer by Ballard of Cranbrook, thermometer hygrometer spirit level and a circular silvered engraved dial...

A finely worked in silk on linen ground, central panel embroidered in black with verses from a 17th century hymn by Joseph Addison. The identity of the maker, now partly unreadable, “F.... M.... work.. aged 12 1814” All text surrounded by stylized birds, flowers in a basket, crosses, vases and trees. Jardinière with flowers at the heading, flanked on each side with large butteflies and cherubs carrying the crowns. In fair condition, some thread deterioration, holes, fading. Mahogany frame...

Japanese six-panel screen: Late winter into early spring, Rimpa style painting of a garden scene with doves on a bamboo fence. Flowers in bloom including ...

Our Blanc de la Mer Glaciale  Tres remarquable par sa tete allongee, et sa blancher….  Dimensions: Height: 10.83 in (27.5 cm) Width: 14.57 in (37 cm) Extremely rare.   Is...

Antique Handcolored Engraving of Lizards, Iguana, Chameleon, and Salamander, Amphibien IV, c.1800 Description: This original handcolored copperplate engraving features four specie...

Roberson and Miller oil on canvas Woman walking in the fields, circa 1835-1838. In original giltwood frame with minor loses.    

ntique Aubusson Tapestry Wall Hanging French and dating from early 19th century Hand woven in wool. Armorial shields to all four borders. Weave...

Ancient Egyptian Revival: 19th century, carving of Horus in the form of a falcon - Beautifully carved classical composition in low relief ...

Pair of etchings and engravings on laid paper by William Grainger (1765–1809), after William Hamilton. Death of General Wolfe at the Siege of Quebec: The general is sitting up, supported by an officer kneeling beside him, as another runs towards them in grief, the battle raging behind; from Lyttleton's 'History of England' (London 1803-05). Published by J Stratford, London, Holbern Hill, 1802. General Burgoyne Addressing the Indians at their War Feast in Canada: Burgoyne on horseback to right, accompanied by two officers on foot, talking with three Canadian Indian...

An antique 19th century carved architectural wall panel. This striking piece would make a charming unique wall decoration on the main wall of a period property. Dating to 1900, thi...

Madam Knipp engraving of pigeon, From Les pigeons par Madame Knip, ne´e Pauline de Courcelles ; le texte par C.J. Themminck, Paris France, 1809-1811. A remarkable large engraving of a pigeon- The Colombe Ramier or Columba Cenea or Wood Pigeon floating within a gilt frame and white matte and with UV Tru-view Clear UV Glass. From a large collection of framed...

This very fine drawing in Sanguine is from the early 19th century. Made as a preparatory sketch concerning composition, musculature and shadow this work is unsigned but we have four ...

Pair of hand colored theatrical engravings from a bound volume containing 45 theatrical prints and nine drawings showing French actors and opera singers i...

This charming portrait of a boy is the work of French artist Eugène Louis Lami (1800-1890). This work of art is a masterly executed pencil drawing from the late 1820s. The drawing co...

These original antique images are hand-colored and from the publication "Picturesque Representations of the Dress and Manners of the Russians," which includes sixty-four colored engr...

Source these engravings: The publication "Picturesque Representations of the Dress and Manners of the Russians," which includes sixty-four colored engravings with descriptions. The w...

These original antique images are hand-colored and from the publication "Picturesque Representations of the Dress and Manners of the Russians," which includes sixty-four colored engr...

Charles Duke is depicted in a relaxed pose, sitting with one arm resting on the arm of the chair and the other holding what appears to be a snuff box, a common accessory of the period among the upper class. His attire is indicative of a person of high social standing during this era. This engraving was likely used to honor the Duke's contributions to the society mentioned and might have been distributed among its members or sold to admirers of the Duke and supporters of the society's causes. The text on the image provides a title and description of the person depicted in the portrait. It reads: "His Grace CHARLES DUKE OF...

An original Georgian architectural pine frieze panel c.1800, handcarved with scallop shell to the centre and scrolling foliage. Fitted with strin...

18th-19th century Old Master "The Holy Family" After Anthonius van Dyck Fine old master painting depicting The Holy Family after a painting by Flemish artist van Dyck. Original...

Early 19th century oil portrait of a handsome young man An original painting of a young man wearing his best suit of clothes. Original oil on ...

The engraving is captioned as "Mode of Fighting in the Navigator's Islands" and depicts a scene of conflict among the indigenous people of the Navigator's Islands, now known as the ...

A French Restauration period octagonal framed oil on canvas still-life painting from the early 19th century, depicting a bouquet of flowers. Born in France during the reign of King L...