Mid 18th C. original Hand-Colored Copperplate engravings The Cardinal Virtues

Description: My Living Estate Sale continues with a phenomenal group of 4 circa 1750-1770 hand-colored copperplate engravings. A great collectable or gifting opportunity. Throughout all these years I have never found another example of these classic autonomous allegorical expressions of the 4 Cardinal Virtues (Justice, Prudence, Temperance and Fortitude). They are widely accepted as being dated to a London based artisan working from 1750-1770. I have seen portions of the entire set of seven virtues at fine art centers or museum holdings, but only in a black ink format. I believe it was a very special request to create a hand-colored set of the 4 Cardinal Virtues for a specific client. My enclosed photographs will reveal not only the fine quality of laid paper used, but the wonderful detail of both the engraving artisan and the attractive hand coloring. I long sought a chance to acquire the other 3 virtues with their poetic captions if they ever did exist. My inability to do so leads me to acknowledge this was indeed a special creation. I truly cannot even determine if more than one set was ever created. This set came from a fine antique prints shop in St. Louis, MO and are so beautifully framed and matted. Acid free backing and matting products were used as well as art conservation glass. I only freed one of the 4 engravings from its' framing to supply the proper examination and photographs for the listing and carefully reset that example back in all the same condition. The verso photo best reveals the detail of the fine laid paper. The actual engraving sheet measures 20 cm x 13 cm ( approx. 5" x 8" ), and the overall framed size is 10.5" x 13". I believe if you would do an online search typing in "The Virtues - Online Library Of Liberty" , you will be able to see the complete set of 7 virtues surely created by the same artisan. A few examples are available in black ink at the fine Grosvenor Prints Gallery. Whether for your own display and investment, or for a tremendous gifting opportunity for a dear friend, business associate, or family member, this is a fine and rare opportunity. Very reasonably priced as I seek appreciative new homes for the items which have been dear to me over the years. As always I offer free shipping, a charity donation and utilize the "Best Offer" listing format to acknowledge all fair buyer offers. Arthur

Price: 800 USD

Location: Shawnee, Kansas

End Time: 2024-11-24T18:34:10.000Z

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