18th Century Prints

Title: "Sunlit Melody: The Yellow Finch" Description: Featured in this late 18th-century hand-colored copperplate engraving is the Yellow Finch, a charming depiction from the series...

Title: "The Elegance of the White Stork" Description: This exquisite hand-colored copperplate engraving, hailing from the late 18th century, captures the serene grace of the White s...

"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...

This print is a colored engraving titled "VIEW in MILAN" and was published by Harrison & Co. on April 1, 1782. It is a picturesque scene depicting a tranquil landscape in Milan, It...

Original antique and hand-colored engraving of people of the Chippewa tribe in American. The upper part of the print says, "Engraved for BANKES's New System of GEOGRAPHY Published b...

Set of 3 Architectural ornament engravings from the folio by James Gibbs. Published by Bowyer, London, 1728. Unframed, age toning, edge wear, small edge loss.

An engraved portrait of Henry VIII, King of England, famous for his role in the separation of the Church of England from the Roman Catholic Church. His reign saw the Dissolution of...

Antique map titled 'Partie de l'Amérique septent qui comprend la nouvelle France ou le Canada'. Decorative and highly detailed map of New England an...

This majestic hand-colored engraving depicts the "SHOEPANDOGE or ROYAL GOLDEN BARGE," a magnificent vessel that radiates the opulence and grandeur of a bygone era. Engraved for "Ma...

The print depicts Stonehenge, an iconic prehistoric monument located in Wiltshire, England. The image is a south view of Stonehenge, featuring a detailed etching and engraving of t...

An original antique engraving of two Buddhist temples in Thailand, also known as Siam historically. The upper part of the engraving is labeled "COUVENT de Talapoins," which refers ...

Given these specific names—Vusihyen, Hu Chew Fu, and Hou-Tcheou-Fou—it appears that the map depicts historical Chinese locations. These names are likely transliterations of Chinese names from the period. "Hu Chew Fu" might be an old Western spelling for what is known in modern pinyin as Huzhou, a city near Lake Tai in China. "Hou-Tcheou-Fou" could refer to a historical name for another city or region, also located in China. More research needed. More about the maker: Jacques-Nicolas Bellin's contributions to cartography and hydrography set a precedent in mapmaking during the 18th century. His role as Hydrographer to the French Navy and later as the Official Hydrographer to the French King placed him at the forefront of maritime charting...

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...

This original antique image is an historical map by Jacques Nicolas Bellin, depicting the Great Wall of China as it was understood in the mid-18th century. The map includes French ...

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...

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...

An antique map by Jacques Nicolas Bellin titled "Plan de la Ville de Peking Capitale de l'Empire de la Chine," published in Paris in 1754. This finely engraved plan shows the detai...

The image is an original engraved portrait of William Cecil, Lord Burleigh. William Cecil, 1st Baron Burghley, was a prominent statesman of the Tudor period in England and one of Q...

These engravings are a series of detailed architectural drawings from "THEATRUM MACHINARUM UNIVERSALE of Nieuwe Algemeene Bouwkunde" by Tieleman van der Horst, engraved by Jan Schenk...

Crafts of Comfort and Style: Upholstery and Furniture Design in the 1760s from Diderot's Encyclopédie This original hand-colored antique engraving is from the "Encyclopédie, ou Dict...

This image is an engraved portrait of Mr. Rapin de Thoyras, created for Harrington's edition of "Rapin's History of England." The individual in the portrait is Paul de Rapin, Lord ...

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...

Title: "Ornate Baroque Stairs: Van der Horst's Design Mastery" Description: These original antique engravings are from Tieleman van der Horst's comprehensive architectural work, illustrating the intricacy and grandeur of Baroque staircase designs. Engraving XVII reveals a dual staircase...

Title: "Baroque Splendor: Van der Horst's Staircase Visions" Description: These engravings from "THEATRUM MACHINARUM UNIVERSALE" exemplify the grandeur and complexity of Baroque sta...

An engraved portrait of Edward VI, who was King of England and Ireland from 1547 until his death in 1553. Edward was the son of Henry VIII and his third wife, Jane Seymour, and he ...

A trio of architectural engravings from Tieleman van der Horst's "THEATRUM MACHINARUM UNIVERSALE" from 1739. Each panel dissects the intricate design and structural mechanics of ba...

The image is an original engraved portrait, depicting King Edward IV of England. This engraving was created for "Harrington’s Edition of Rapin’s History of England." The text below...

Title: "Baroque Elegance: Van der Horst's Staircase Engravings" Description: These detailed engravings from Tieleman van der Horst's "THEATRUM MACHINARUM UNIVERSALE" are a remarkabl...

Title: "Architectural Grace: Van der Horst's Staircase Artistry" Description: The engravings, drawn from Tieleman van der Horst's "THEATRUM MACHINARUM UNIVERSALE," are masterful rep...

The image is an original antique architectural print, specifically a rosette, which is a round, stylized flower design, commonly used in architectural decoration. The print is titled "Rosone preso da Frammenti Antichi T.2. plate 41", indicating that it is the 41st plate from volume 2 of a work that deals with designs taken from ancient fragments. This particular print was created by Carlo Antonini between 1777 and 1790, as part of an art print set...

Title: "Architectural Grandeur: Van der Horst's Baroque Ornaments" Description: This collection of six engravings from Tieleman van der Horst's "THEATRUM MACHINARUM UNIVERSALE" show...

A fine example of an 18th-century botanical engraving. Created by Carlo Antonini between 1777 and 1790, it showcases a detailed depiction of a flower in full bloom. The illustration is highly detailed, with individual petals, stamens, and shading rendered with precision, indicating a high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that was characteristic of botanical illustrations of the period. The image is likely part of a larger work, perhaps a botanical compendium or study, which would have been used for both scientific study and artistic appreciation. The text at the bottom of the print, "Rarone Antico nel Foro di Nerva," analysed: The phrase "Rosone Antico nel Foro di Nerva" could potentially be translated as "Ancient Rosette in the Forum of Nerva." Breaking down the phrase: - "Rosone" typically refers to a "rose window," a large circular window with mullions and tracery radiating in a form suggestive of a rose, commonly found in Gothic architecture. However, in this context, without the surrounding content, it might refer to a specific design or feature that is described as "antique" or ancient. - "Antico" means "ancient" or "antique," indicating that the item or feature referred to as "Rosone" is of historical significance or from a past era. - "Foro di Nerva" refers to the Forum of Nerva, which is one of the Imperial Forums in Rome. Therefore, the phrase seems to describe an ancient or historically significant rosette (or possibly a design or feature similar to a rose window) located in the Forum of Nerva. This might be referencing a specific architectural detail or decorative element that was part of the forum's structure or adornment. For a detailed analysis or historical context, you would typically need to consult historical texts, architectural studies, or archaeological reports related to the Forum of Nerva. The style of the print suggests that it was created using engraving techniques that involve incising a design onto a hard surface (like a copper plate), which was then inked and used to produce the image on paper. This method allowed for reproductions of the design and was commonly used for scientific illustrations because it could capture intricate details with great accuracy. Such prints would have been important in the 18th century for the dissemination of botanical knowledge, contributing to the fields of botany, horticulture, and medicine. They also reflect the Enlightenment's value on reason and empirical evidence, where plants were not only appreciated for their beauty but also studied for their structure and utility. Carlo Antonini's notable work includes a series of 85 etchings that were published in Rome in 1780, dedicated to Count Stanislao Potocki. This collection, titled "Serie di LXXXV disegni in varie grandezze composti dal celebre pittore Salvator Rosa publicati ed incisi da Carlo Antonini," consists of reproductions of Salvator Rosa's 'Figurine' series and other prints. It includes various pieces like a title-page with a coat of arms, a dedication, a preface, and several other individual works ranging from small prints to larger ones, such as depictions of mythical and historical scenes. The etchings were printed in sanguine ink, indicative of the period's artistic preferences for printmaking. These works are an example of Antonini's precision in reproducing another artist's work and are recognized for their faithfulness to Rosa's original designs. Additionally, Antonini is associated with other works such as the "Manuale di varj ornamenti componenti la serie de' vasi antichi," a collection that includes designs and engravings of ancient vases, and prints dedicated to the Duomo Di Orvieto. Another significant piece is his engraving titled "Prospetto degli Orti Farnesiani sul Monte Palatino," which was created in collaboration with Francesco Panini...

These engravings are a series of detailed architectural drawings from "THEATRUM MACHINARUM UNIVERSALE of Nieuwe Algemeene Bouwkunde" by Tieleman van der Horst, engraved by Jan Schenk...

An engraved portrait of Henry IV, King of England. Henry IV was the first English monarch from the Lancastrian branch of the Plantagenets and came to power after deposing his cousin Richard II in 1399. His reign was marked by the start of the 15-year civil strife known as the Wars of the Roses, numerous rebellions, and efforts to consolidate his power and legitimize his somewhat tenuous claim to the throne. The text mentions that the portrait is based on a picture at Hampton Court, which is a royal palace in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames. Published as the act directs on June 18th, 1787, this engraving is part of the collection for "Harrington's Edition of Rapin's History of England." Henry IV's reign is notable for the rebellion led by the famous knight Henry Percy...

An engraved portrait of Edward I, also known as Edward Longshanks and the Hammer of the Scots, who was King of England from 1272 to 1307. The text beneath t...

This composite image features three separate engravings from Tieleman van der Horst's "THEATRUM MACHINARUM UNIVERSALE," a pivotal work in the field of architectural design published ...

An original antique engraved portrait from Harrington's edition of "Rapin's History of England." The text identifies the subject as Edward the VI, King of England, France, and Irel...

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...

The image is an ornate botanical and ornithological illustration from one of Johann Michael Seligmann's collections, which were based on George Edwards's natural history studies. Th...

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

A beautiful hand-colored engraving from Johann Michael Seligmann's collection, which was based on the earlier works of George Edwards. The text on this image is in German, Latin, a...

This original antique print is labeled "Rosone Antico nell'Arco degli Argentari," which can be translated as "Ancient Rosette in the Arch of the Silversmiths." The phrase "Rosone An...

An American Revolutionary war bond from the State of Connecticut from circa 1782 in custom black frame under glass. Step into the pages of history with this authentic American Revolu...

This is an 18th-century hand-colored engraving from Johann Michael Seligmann's collection, displaying a parrot species. Here’s the transcription and translation of the visible text: ...

This is a hand-colored engraving from Johann Michael Seligmann's work, depicting a butterfly and a two-headed snake. Below is the transcription and translation of the text: - "Di...

This elegant engraving from the late 18th century features a rosette, an ornamental design resembling a stylized rose, which has been a recurring motif in architectural design throug...

Title: "Classical Profiles: Raphael's Vision by Nicolas Pigné, 1740" This is an original engraving from 1740 by Nicolas Pigné, after a painting by Raffaello Sanzio da Urbino, known ...

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...

"Rosone Antico nel Tempio di Giove Statore." A breakdown of the title: - "Rosone" typically refers to an architectural term for a rose window, which is a circular window with a dec...

This is the frontispiece of the first volume of "Delle antichità di Ercolano" (The Antiquities of Herculaneum), published in 1757 by the Royal Printing House of Naples, Italy. The ...

This hand-colored engraving, part of Johann Michael Seligmann's collection, is a precise and vibrant representation of wildlife, based on the works of George Edwards. It showcases an...

The Amboinese Cabinet of Curiosities was a work by Georg Eberhard Rumphius, and included many engravings of sea shells and crustaceans. The German edition of the book was financed ...

From Metamorphosis Insectorum Surinamensium, first published 1705 Engravings by J. Mulder, P. Sluyter (Sluiter) and D. Stoopendaal after Maria Sybilla Merian. This plate is part of ...

This engraving, titled "Rosone preso da Frammenti Antichi," presents a detailed rosette that draws inspiration from classical motifs found in ancient fragments. The intricate design ...

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 engraving is from the Johann Michael Seligmann's collection, based on the works of George Edwards that was published in 1743. The text in the image is in both German and Latin...

The illustration showcases the American Goldfinch (Spinus tristis), formerly known as Carduelis Americanus, perched gracefully upon a leafy branch. It is a detailed 18th-century re...

This elegant engraving from the late 18th century features a rosette, an ornamental design resembling a stylized rose, which has been a recurring motif in architectural design throug...