18th Century Prints

"The City of Malacca in the East Indies" is from Charles Theodore Middleton's work, "A New and Complete System of Geography." This book was published in 1777. Therefore, the engrav...

The engraving titled "The Death of Captn. Cook" depicts the dramatic and tragic event of Captain James Cook's death. This artwork is intricately framed with ornate borders and decora...

This etching and engraving, titled "Loup-cervier," depicts a lynx standing in a poised, alert posture. The artwork intricately captures the texture of the lynx’s fur, its muscular bu...

This etching and engraving, titled "Chamois," depicts a chamois standing with a poised and alert demeanor. The artist has intricately captured the animal’s slender frame, short curve...

1778 Engraving of Captain Cook's Second Voyage: Meeting Tahitians This beautiful copper-line engraving from 1778, created by Charles Grignion (1717-1810) after a work by Samuel Wale...

An engraving depicting the historical event titled "The Landing of Capt. Cook &c. at Middleburgh, one of the Friendly Isles." Description: - The scene shows Captain James Cook and...

The sheet contains three separate engravings, each depicting a different scene: 1. Top Engraving: "Mr. Banks receiving a Visit from the King of Duke of York's Island" - This eng...

Description of this original antique engraving - Subject Matter: Hebrew midwives refusing to kill male babies as ordered by the Pharaoh of Egypt. - Artists: Engraving by Peter ...

The engraving with frame shows a woman in profile, reaching out to grasp an object out of frame, her eyes hidden under a bonnet. This work is made after the Guercin "Guercino inv" a...

This is an engraving depicting sea lions from a 1765 Dutch edition of George Anson's account of his voyage around the world. Here's a detailed description of the artwork: Title: "Ee...

This etching and engraving, titled "Gazel (Gazelle)," is a meticulous depiction of a gazelle standing gracefully. The artwork showcases the gazelle's slender body, delicate legs, and...

This etching and engraving, titled "Sanglier" (Wild Boar), depicts a wild boar lying down, possibly resting or in a moment of repose. The artist has meticulously captured the texture...

This etching and engraving, titled "Loup pris au piège" (Wolf Caught in a Trap), depicts a wolf ensnared in a trap. The artwork captures the wolf's struggle and distress with precise...

This etching and engraving, titled "Renard," depicts a fox in a dynamic and alert posture. The artwork captures the fox's thick fur, bushy tail, and sharp features with exquisite det...

This framed engraving, made in the red chalk style, represents the apostle Matthew writing his Gospel under the dictation of the angel. The angel is Matthew's symbol, because his Gos...

The image is a copper engraving from around 1770. It depicts various scenes involving animals and a person. Here’s a detailed description of the different elements in the engraving: ...

A historical copperplate engraving from Georges-Louis Le Clerc, Comte de Buffon's work "Histoire Naturelle Générale et Particuliere." It features an illustration titled "Le Taguan ou...

This genuine antique engraving is an illustration of a bird labeled as "Calao à bec rouge, du Sénégal," which translates to "Red-billed Hornbill from Senegal." The artwork is attribu...

This hand-colored engraving, titled "Het Stadhuis van vooren," depicts the Amsterdam Royal Palace (initially the Town Hall) in the mid-18th century. Created in 1765 by Frans de Bakke...

Antique print titled 'Marche Militaire du Japon'. Copper engraving of a Japanese military march. This print originates from 'Histoire générale des voyag...

Title: **Le Temple de La Mecque (The Temple of Mecca)** **Engraver:** Bernard Picart **Source:** "Cérémonies et coutumes religieuses de tous les peuples du monde" (Ceremonies and Re...

Antique print titled ‘Coches Mogols tirés par des Boeufs - Mogolsche koetsen door ossen getrokken‘. This print depicts a Mughal coach pulled by cattle. Originates from a Dutch editio...

The engravings are from 1760 and depict botanical illustrations of flowers. Note: They are not framed yet. The hand-coloring is original from 1760. Here are the details of the flowe...

"Vue du Port de Constantinople, prise du côté du Nord". Contemporary handcolored optical view, Paris, J. Chereau, ±1760. Description: This contemporary handcolored optical view, tit...

Original hand-colored antique bird print showing The Black and Spotted Heath Cock. It is part of George Edwards' highly acclaimed works, "A Natural History of Uncommon Birds" and "Gl...

Original Hand-Colored engraving from George Edwards' "A Natural History of Uncommon Birds," which was published in multiple volumes between 1743 and 1751. Specifically, the engrav...

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...

The bird in the engraving represents a member of the Eudynamys genus, such as the Asian Koel (Eudynamys scolopaceus). The visual details in the print align with some features of the ...

Antique Bird print: The Greatest Martin or Swift" **Artist**: George Edwards **Plate Number**: 27 **Date**: Published 1743-1751 **Medium**: Hand-colored Copper Plate Engraving This...

These hand-colored engravings are various bird illustrations published by Buffon. They are from the work of Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon, a renowned French naturalist. These bird illustrations are from his monumental work "Histoire Naturelle, Générale et Particulière" (Natural History, General and Particular), which was published in multiple volumes over several decades in the 18th century. The specific bird prints are from the volumes dedicated to birds ("Histoire Naturelle des Oiseaux"). These volumes were published between 1770 and 1783. The precise publication date for each illustration can vary depending on the volume and edition, but the entire series falls within this time frame. Buffon's "Histoire Naturelle" is celebrated for its detailed and scientifically accurate illustrations, which were a significant contribution to ornithology and natural history at the time. Here are detailed descriptions of the birds depicted in each of the three prints: **First Print (Pl. 88):** 1. **Le Héron (The Heron)** - A tall bird with a long neck, a sharp beak, and long legs. The plumage is mostly gray with a lighter chest and dark wings. It stands on a grassy patch. 2. **Le Butor (The Bittern)** - A medium-sized bird with a stout body and a thick neck. The plumage is brown with darker streaks, blending well with marshy surroundings. It stands on a small patch of ground. 3. **Le Secretaire (The Secretary Bird)** - A large bird with an eagle-like body and crane-like legs. It has long tail feathers and distinctive crest feathers on its head. The plumage is a mix of gray, black, and white. It stands on a grassy area. **Second Print (Pl. 105):** 1. **L'Albatros (The Albatross)** - A large seabird with long wings and a stout body. The plumage is white with dark wings. It is depicted floating on water. 2. **Le Cygne (The Swan)** - A graceful bird with a long neck and white plumage. It has an orange beak with a black base and is shown swimming. 3. **Le Pélican (The Pelican)** - A large bird with a long beak and a distinctive throat pouch. The plumage is white with a hint of pink. It stands on a rock near the water. **Third Print (Pl. 96):** 1. **La Spatule (The Spoonbill)** - A bird with a long, flat, spoon-shaped bill. The plumage is white with a slight pink tinge. It stands on a grassy patch. 2. **La Grue (The Crane)** - A tall bird with long legs and neck, mostly gray plumage with black wing tips. It has a red crown on its head and stands on a grassy area. 3. **L'Aigrette (The Egret)** - A slender bird with white plumage, long neck, and black legs. It has delicate plumes on its back and is shown standing near water. These illustrations are characteristic of the detailed and accurate depictions typical of Buffon's work in natural history. These birds are found in various habitats across the world. Here are the typical regions and habitats for each bird: **First Print (Pl. 88):** 1. **Le Héron (The Heron)** - Herons are widely distributed across the world, found in both freshwater and coastal habitats. They are commonly seen in wetlands, marshes, rivers, and along lakeshores. 2. **Le Butor (The Bittern)** - Bitterns are also found in wetlands and marshes, with a preference for dense reed beds. They have a wide distribution, including parts of Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. 3. **Le Secretaire (The Secretary Bird)** - Native to Sub-Saharan Africa, Secretary Birds inhabit open grasslands and savannas. They are terrestrial birds often seen stalking through tall grass in search of prey. **Second Print (Pl. 105):** 1. **L'Albatros (The Albatross)** - Albatrosses are primarily found in the Southern Ocean and North Pacific. They are oceanic...

These hand-colored engravings are various bird illustrations published by Buffon. They are from the work of Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon, a renowned French naturalist. T...

Neoclassical Etching of three ancient Roman urn on pedestal, two oil lamps and a vase by Giovanni Battista Piranesi (1720-1778) originally publis...

Neoclassical Etching of three ancient Roman candelabra by Giovanni Battista Piranesi (1720-1778) originally published in 1778 as Vasi, candelabri...

18th Century ReStrike Print of Bronzes Adorning the Fountain of Daybreak at the Palace of Versailles. Originally created and printed in 1687 by Jacques Houzeau, when the Bronzes were...

The engravings from Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon's "Histoire Naturelle des Oiseaux" were made during the mid to late 18th century. Buffon's extensive work on natural histor...

These two engravings by Claude Randon, dated between 1674 and 1704, depict a centaur with a cherub riding on its back. The engravings are beautifully framed in dark brown frames, add...

Pair of late 18th and early 19th century botanical engravings by Sydenham Teast Edwards. Plate No 138, Kalmia Hirsuta - Engraved by T. Edwards, extracted from "The Botanical Magazine...

Set of three antique prints of various figures from India. These prints originate from 'Atlas Historique' published by Chatelain, 1732. Plate 1: F...

Pair of rare antique 18th century Jacques de Sève dental / Zoology / anatomy etchings / engravings of a Mastodon / Mammut tooth, front and top views / elevations. One marked as Plat...

Pair of mid 18th century (1740s) colored sheets of music illustrated by George Bickham - The Syren of the Stage, showing a male and female pair of figures playing flute and mandolin,...

A pair of George III Stipple Engravings Engraved by Charles Knight (1743-1826) after Henry William Bunbury (1750-1811) Published London 1787 A pair of oval shaped, stipple engraving...

An American Revolutionary war bond from the State of Connecticut from the late 18th century in custom black frame under glass. This late 18th-century American Revolutionary War bond ...

Title: "The Siege of Nyborg, 1659: A Strategic Battle of the Dano-Swedish War" Translated text (From Dutch) on copper engraving: "The city of Nyborg captured by the lord Michiel de ...

Original hand-coloured engraving anno 1710 with title: Templum Orientale / Oosterkerk. The Oosterkerk is a 17th-century church building on the Wittenburgergracht in Wittenburg (Amst...

"Vivid Elegance: The Blue-Headed Parrot" Description: This hand-colored copperplate engraving from the late 18th century showcases the vibrant beauty of the Blue-Headed Parrot. Cr...

The text in the image reads: "The Cape of Good Hope" and "London Mag: 1754." This suggests that this small image is a rare copper engraving that was featured in the London Magazine i...

This original print is titled "THE PYRAMIDS OF EGYPT." It depicts the famous Giza pyramid complex, with the three pyramids standing prominently in the background. In the foreground...

Grande incisione nautica tratta dall’Enciclopedia di Diderot edita in Parigi, raffigurante una Galera vista di fianco con disegni delle ancore intitolata al centro Marine Dessein d’u...

"THE EMPRESS OF RUSSIA'S TRAVELLING EQUIPAGE," as indicated by the title at the bottom of the print. It portrays a unique scene featuring a large, box-like carriage being transport...

Original antique engraving of a Comparative Anatomy of Primate Skulls Description: This detailed print by Carl Johann Georg Reuss, an illustrious illustrator, features a striking il...

This print is titled "RUINS OF PERSEPOLIS" and it showcases a detailed and colored engraving of the ancient ruins of Persepolis in Persia (modern-day Iran). The image portrays a se...

This exquisite engraving, dating back to around 1780, presents a masterfully crafted rosette, a decorative motif that captures the elegance and refined aesthetic of the neoclassical ...

This original antique hand-colored engraving by Johann Michael Seligmann is a representation of the Golden Thrush, derived from George Edwards' "Natural History of Uncommon Birds" and "Gleanings of Natural History." The artwork was part of Seligmann's own work, "Sammlung Verschiedener Auslandischer und Seltener Vogel," which translates to "Collection of Various Foreign and Rare Birds," published in 1749. The engraving contains several lines of text in different languages, likely identifying the bird and giving references to the work it was derived from. Here’s the transcription and translation of the visible text: - "Gallula Bengalensis." - This is Latin, likely the scientific name of the bird at the time, which translates to "Bengal Gallula" or "Bengal Thrush." - "N:o 80./VII.Heft." - This seems to be a reference to the plate number and the volume or issue number of the collection. - "Le Grive Dorée, Icterus." - In French, this means "The Golden Thrush, Icterus." 'Icterus' refers to the genus that includes birds commonly known as orioles, which are often characterized by their yellow and black plumage. - "Goldbrostel." - This could be an old or regional name for the bird in German, which might translate to something like "Gold Breast" referring to the bird's golden chest...

The image is a colored print depicting a "Lady of Quality in Burgundy in 1577," as indicated by the title below the illustration. The lady is dressed in a fashion typical of the late...

This image is an original architectural print depicting a rosette, a decorative motif fashioned after a stylized rose, commonly found in ...

An original engraved portrait of James II, King of England. The style of the engraving and the attire of the individual are consistent with late 17th-century fashion, aligning with James II's reign from 1685 to 1688. The text beneath the image indicates that it was published as part of the same historical work by Rapin de Thoyras, and this specific print was made from an original picture painted by Sir Godfrey Kneller, a leading portrait painter of that time. The engraving was published as the act directs on August 1st, 1789, showing that it was also intended to be protected under copyright law. This inscription indicates that the portrait of James II, King of England, was originally painted by Godfrey Kneller (referred to as G. Kneller Pinx, with "Pinx" being an abbreviation for "pinxit," Latin for "painted by") and engraved by John Goldar (referred to as Goldar Sculp, with "Sculp" being short for "sculpsit," Latin for "engraved by"). James II of England, who was also James VII of Scotland, was born on October 14, 1633, and reigned from 1685 until he was deposed in the Glorious Revolution...

"The Graceful Sentinel: The Crane" Description: This beautifully hand-colored copperplate engraving from the closing years of the 18th century is a part of the celebrated series by ...

An engraving of Torquato Tasso, a prominent Italian poet of the 16th century, best known for his epic poem "Gerusalemme Liberata" ("Jerusalem Delivered"), which tells the story of th...