18th Century and Earlier Prints

Wonderful set of 12 botanical prints. A beautiful colour of off-white/cream to the paper. Dated 1791 Originally from " Flora Londinensis " published by William Curtis Copper-pla...

"Vibrant Indian Cress Engraving - Icones Plantarum Medicinalium, 1788" This striking hand-colored engraving from Joseph Jakob Plenck's "Icones Plantarum Medicinalium" depicts the In...

Pair of 18th century Italian architectural etchings of churches in Rome by Guiseppe Vasi (1710-1782) from "Raccolta Delle Più Belle Veduta Antiche...

The engraving titled "Pantheon nunc vulgo la Rotunda" is attributed to the publishing efforts of Joan Blaeu and was part of a series published around the ea...

This image is an antique colored etching from a botanical work by J.W. Weinmann, titled "Duidelyke vertoning eeniger duizend in alle vier waerelds deelen wassende bomen, stammen, kru...

Original hand-colored antique bird print showing an American Kingfisher from the book "A Natural History of Uncommon Birds" (1743-1751) by George Edwards. This hand-colored engraving showcases the bird perched on a branch, holding a fish in its beak. The kingfisher is characterized by its distinctive plumage, with a slate-blue back and wings, a speckled tail, and a prominent crest on its head. Its body is white underneath with some pinkish hues near the breast. The bird's sharp beak is shown spearing a fish, emphasizing its hunting prowess. The surrounding environment includes a simple background with water and vegetation, highlighting the bird's natural habitat. This illustration is part of an increasingly rare and treasured collection of natural history artwork from the 18th century. George Edwards (1694–1773) was an English naturalist and ornithologist who is often referred to as the "father of British ornithology." His most famous work, "A Natural History of Uncommon Birds" (1743-1751), and its continuation "Gleanings of Natural History" (1758-1764), contain detailed illustrations and descriptions of many bird species, many of which were little known or newly discovered at the time. Edwards' work is highly regarded for its accuracy, artistry, and contribution to the field of ornithology. About George Edwards: 1. **Early Life and Career**: - Born in Stratford, Essex, Edwards was apprenticed to a tradesman in London. However, he developed an interest in natural history and began studying birds, insects, and other animals. - He spent some time traveling in Europe, studying various collections of natural history specimens. 2. **Publications**: - **"A Natural History of Uncommon Birds" (1743-1751)**: This work is a collection of 210 hand-colored engravings of birds. It is known for its meticulous attention to detail and accuracy in depicting bird species. - **"Gleanings of Natural History" (1758-1764)**: This series continued the work started in "A Natural History of Uncommon Birds" and included additional birds as well as other animals. - His publications also included detailed observations and descriptions, making them valuable not only for their artistic merit but also for their scientific content. 3. **Artistic and Scientific Contributions**: - Edwards was known for his ability to combine artistic skill with scientific precision. His illustrations often depicted birds in lifelike poses and settings, showing their natural behaviors. - He collaborated with and was influenced by other naturalists and illustrators of his time, such as Carl Linnaeus and Mark Catesby. - Edwards' works were used by Linnaeus in the development of his system of taxonomy. 4. **Legacy**: - George Edwards' contributions to ornithology and natural history have had a lasting impact. His detailed and accurate illustrations helped to advance the study of birds and influenced subsequent generations of naturalists and artists. - His books remain highly prized by collectors and are considered important historical documents in the field of natural history. ### "A Natural History of Uncommon Birds" and Its Importance: - **Illustrations**: Each illustration in Edwards' work was carefully hand-colored, and the engravings were often accompanied by descriptive text that included observations about the birds' habitats, behaviors, and physical characteristics. - **Scientific Accuracy**: Edwards took great care to ensure the accuracy of his depictions, often working from specimens he had observed firsthand. - **Influence**: The work was well-received in its time and remains a significant reference for ornithologists and historians. It contributed to a greater understanding and appreciation of bird species from around the world. Overall, George Edwards' work represents a critical intersection of art and science during the Enlightenment period, capturing the beauty and diversity of the natural world while contributing to the scientific knowledge of his time. ------------- The bird depicted is a Belted Kingfisher...

Antique map titled 'Carte de la Champagne et des Pays Voisins (..)'. Detailed map of Champagne and surrounding regions of Chalons and Soissons, Reims,...

This is an authentic engraved portrait of Mary, Queen of Scots. Mary was one of the most fascinating and tragic figures in Scottish and English history. She became queen consort in...

Antique map titled 'Africae Pars Borealis.' Very decorative antique map of the northern part of Africa by Heinrich Scherer. The map is full of the spurious geography of the perio...

A Dutch / English engraver born in Amsterdam and settled in London in the late 1680s. These engravings are from his most important work " Brittania Illustrata , a series of etchings ...

The print is from one of Captain Cook's voyages and likely from one of the three major voyages he undertook between 1768 and 1779. The engravings from these voyages were made by arti...

The illustration features the species labeled as "Physeter microcephalus Linn.," historically referred to with this name but now known commonly as the sperm whale. This depiction, given its accuracy and detail, was likely part of an educational or scientific series aimed at documenting various marine species. Description of the Illustration The sperm whale is depicted with notable attention to its distinct body shape and features, such as the large, block-shaped head which is characteristic of the species. The coloration is muted, reflecting the typical dark grey to black hues of the sperm whale. The background includes a detailed portrayal of a rocky underwater seascape with algae and other marine plants, suggesting the deep ocean habitats where these whales are typically found. The surface and spray around the whale add a dynamic element, capturing the moment of the whale at or near the surface. This hand-colored engraving combines precise line work with subtle coloring, a technique that enhances the scientific utility of the piece while also providing aesthetic appeal. Description: Venture into the mysterious world of the deep sea with this striking 18th to 19th-century illustration of the sperm whale, historically referred to as Physeter microcephalus. This piece is from the distinguished series "Die Säugthiere in Abbildungen nach der Natur, mit Beschreibungen," known for its precise and detailed natural history illustrations. This entry aims to highlight the illustration's value as a work of art and a piece of scientific heritage, appealing to a broad audience interested in natural history, marine biology, and antique scientific illustrations...

Great map of Ancient Greece. Showing the region of Thessaly, including Mount Olympus Drawn by J.D. Barbie Du Bocage Copper plate engraving by P.F Tardieu Original hand color...

Antique print titled 'Vue Generale Perspective de l'Hôtel Royal des Invalides'. Bird's-eye view of Hôtel National des Invalides, Paris, France. Published, circa 1760.

Description: Antique map titled'Theatrum Historicum pars Orientalis.' Finely engraved historical map with a profusion of details. It shows the Middle East and Asia. Decorative ti...

"Architectural Elegance: Neoclassical Facades and Floor Plans from 'Recueil Élémentaire d’Architecture' by Jean-Francois de Neufforge" offers a captivating glimpse into the rich heri...

Description: Antique map titled 'Erster Abriss der Stadt Jerusalem wie sie Furnemblich zur Zeit des Hernn Christi beschaffen (..).' Spectacular town plan...

Antique map titled 'Naauwkeurige Kaart van 'T Keizerryk Japan (..).' Attractive detailed map of Japan. With scale and compass rose. This map originates from 'Hedendaegsche historie...

Set of 3 antique entomology prints depicting various butterflies. These prints originate from 'De Uitlandsche Kapellen voorkomende in de Drie...

This captivating antique print, titled 'The Satier, Sauage, Wild-man, Orang-autang, Chimp-anzee', is a meticulously detailed zoological study of an orangutan from the renowned work "...

The print is a detailed 18th-century engraving depicting the ruins of the ancient city of Palmyra in Syria. It is titled "Ruins of Palmyra" and was published by Harrison & Co in the ...

Ptolemaic map of the Arabian Peninsula based on the 1548 map of Giacomo Gastaldi. It covers nearly all of the peninsula, but does not include the head of the Red Sea. The coastlines ...

Antique portrait titled 'Louis Seize, Roi de France et de Navarre'. Old portrait of Louis XVI , King of France. Source unknown, to bet determined. Ar...

The collage of original antique engravings a compilation of three prints from the "Encyclopédie" by Diderot and d'Alembert. Each print showcases various furnishings and decorative elements relating to beds and upholstery from the 18th century. The collection presents a visual guide to the design and craftsmanship of the period. In the first print, we see two types of beds with canopies, known as "Lit à colonnes" and "Lit à la Duchesse," accompanied by different fabric patterns that might be used for the bed drapery or other upholstery within a room. The second print continues with illustrations of beds, including "Lit à double tombeau" and "Lit à tombeau simple," a camp bed or "Lit de camp à l'Angloise," as well as a folding screen ("Paravent"), a fire screen ("Ecran"), and a type of swing door ("Porte-Batante"). The third print features a more elaborate "Lit à la Polonaise...

Antique map titled 'Nieuwe Kaart van de Noord Pool na de alderlaatste ondekking int licht gebracht'. Map of the Northern Hemisphere and North Pole, which shows the NE Passage, but no...

Very old and interesting engraving of the Eighty Years' War. The Battle of Jodoigne (or the Battle of the River Gete), which was a clash that occurred on October 20, 1568, during th...

Antique print titled 'Les Pyramides de l'Egypte'. A vue d'optique of the pyramids of Egypt, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This is an optical print, also called 'vue optiq...

This original antique print shows the Hindu god Vishnu incarnated as Krishna. Dutch text on verso. From: 'Naauwkeurige Beschryvinge van Malabar en Choromande...

Antique map titled 'Carte de Tartarie'. Detailed map of Tartary, consisting of the Eastern part of Russia, Central Asia, China and Korea, first published by Guillaume De L'Isle in 1706. The map extends from the Peninsula of Korea in the east to the Caspian and Black Seas. The Great Wall of China...

Antique print titled 'De Wester-Kerk van binnen, naar 't Oosten, te zien. This print depicts a church interior in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. This print originates from ' Amsterdam, ...

Antique map titled 'A Map of the East Indies (..)'. Large antique map of Southeast Asia, India, and part of China, extending to Tibet, the Maladives, Sumatra, part of Borneo, Hainan,...

This hand-colored engraving, titled "Avis mellivora viridis macroura" (Long-Tailed Green Hummingbird) and "Le Colibri-Vert à longue-queue" in French, is a stunning depiction of a gre...

Fantastic 18th Century Antique Hand-Colored Engravings depicting Greek Mythological scenes. This set of artwork is from J.B. Wicar. These matted and gold gilt...

Antique map titled 'De Zuid Pool, waar in aangetoont werd alle de Nieuwe Landen (..)'. Original antique map of the South Pole including two small inset maps...

Antique print titled 'Motacilla, Luscinia'. The common nightingale or simply nightingale (Luscinia megarhynchos), also known as rufous nightingale, is a small passerine bird best kno...

This elegant hand-colored engraving, titled "Avis mellivora macroura capite nigro" (Long-Tailed Hummingbird with Black Head) and "Le Colibri à tête noire et longue-queue," features a...

This rooster printing is a work signed by French designer Jean Lurçat. Circa 1970.

Plate XII: 'Chirurgie'. (Surgery.) This plate shows a sick man and child to be operated on. This print originates from 'Encyclopédie (..)' by D. Diderot. Published, circa 1760.

Antique print titled 'Genua'. Bird's-Eye View of the City of Genoa, Italy. Published by Matthäus Merian the Elder, circa 1650. Matthäus Merian sr. (the Elder; 1593-1630) was born in Switzerland but eventually settled in Frankfurt; he was trained as an engraver. He married Maria Magdalena de Bry, daughter Johann Theodore de Bry...

Framed Botanical Engraving, Johann Wilhelm Weinmann. Johann Wilhelm Weinmann (German 1683-1741) Published in Amsterdam & Ratisbon, 1736-45....

Two religious images on one sheet titled 'Kopere Zee in den Tempel van Salomon' and 'Doorsnede van de Kopere Zee des Tempels van Salomon'. The 'Brazen Sea' in Solomon's Temple an...

Antique map titled 'Novissima et Accuratissima Totius Americae Descriptio per I. Danckerts'. Striking map of America. California is shown as an island, Based Upon Sanson's model. The Great Lakes are shown with an open western coastline. No Northwestern Coast beyond 40 degrees. The seven cities of Cibola appear in the Southwestern US. The conception of the Mississippi River is still very vague and pushed far west of its true mouth. The large lake in the Southeastern US first seen on Le Moyne's map is still present. South America retains its excessively wide format. A hopeful extension from Button's Bay is shown portending a possible Northwest Passage. The map is richly embellished with two cartouches, 9 sailing vessels and elaborate vignettes of native villages, native warriors...

Antique map Switzerland titled 'Territorium Reipublicae liberae Helveticae Scaphusiensis (..)'. Regional map of Switzerland. Artists and En...

This is a hand-colored copper engraving by Johann Michael Seligmann, derived from the work of George Edwards, and is part of the *Sammlung verschiedener ausländischer und seltener Vö...

This detailed copper engraving originates from Arnoldus Montanus' "Die Unbekannte Neue Welt oder Beschreibung des Welt-teils Amerika und des Sud-Landes", depicting a ceremonial gathering in New Spain...

A 17th century hand-colored map of North & South America entitled "Americae Descriptio" by the cartographer Johannes Jansson, published in Jansson's Atlas Minor in Amsterdam in 1628....

Wonderful images of classical Roman statues-Minerva and Mercury Copper-plate engravings Published by Monaldini, Rome, 1776 Good quality wove paper Free shipping  

Antique map titled 'Nieuwe Kaart der platte Grond van de Stad Parys (..)'. Beautiful city plan of Paris, France. This map originates from 'Nieuwe en Beknopte Hand-Atlas, bestaande in...

Antique map titled 'Fezzae et Marocchi regna Africae Celeberrima'. Map of Morocco, showing large fortified towns of Marakesh, Taradante and Fez, towns, mountains, rivers, lakes, etc....

This hand-colored engraving, titled "Avis mellivora major rubra macroura" (Large Red Long-Tailed Hummingbird) and "Avis mellivora minor fulva" (Small Brown Hummingbird), depicts two ...

Set of 3 antique botany prints. It shows the Scarlet Lychnis, Catesby's Lily and Narrow-Leaved Cyrtanthus. These prints originate from '...

Description: Antique print, untitled. Two decorative maps on one sheet of the middle east in biblical times. Source unknown, to be determined. Artists and Engravers: Anonymous...

An American Revolutionary war bond from the State of Connecticut from the late 18th century in custom black frame under glass. From the poignant tapestry of America's Revolutionary p...

Antique Illustrations of Colorful Insects: Hand-Colored Engravings from the 18th and 19th Century This exquisite pair of antique prints showcases vibrant depictions of colorful inse...

Wonderful set of 9 Grand Tour Prints. Classical Roman busts Copper-plate engravings Published by Monaldini, Rome, 1776 Good quality wove paper Fr...

Set of etchings of views of a Greek ceremonial klismos chair. In his fifties, G.B. Piranesi was interested in archaeology and studied in Southern Ita...

Antique map titled 'Karte von dem groessten Theil des Landes Jemen'. Original map of Yemen, this map is the first printed map specifically of Yemen, and t...

Antique print titled 'The Elevation of Melvin House in the Shire of Fyfe (..)'. Old engraving of Melville House in Fife, Scotland. This print originates from 'Vitruvius Britannic...