Engraving Dionysus, Maenads & Hermes Plate 84 William Hamilton ANTIQUE
An original copperplate engraving, plate number 84, from Sir William Hamilton's famous and rare book series 'Collection of Etruscan, Greek and Roman Antiquities from the Cabinet of the Hon. William Hamilton, 1766-67.
Printed and hand coloured on a double page spread taken from Volume II. The book describes the ancient history of vase making. It also investigates the decoration process, and examples of this are illustrated through a large number of plates.
The printed image, in its original colours, depicts three significant figures of Greek mythology: Dionysus, Hermes and the Maenads. The scene was decorated on an ancient Greek water jar (attic black figured hydra), that was part of the collection of antiquities belonging to Sir William Hamilton (1730-1803).
Published in 1770, the book was printed in Naples by François Morelli. The first part of the printing process of this original print was the application of a terracotta coloured wash. Once the printing paper had dried the etching plate (engraved with the image) was loaded with black ink that was to be applied over the terracotta background. The final part was hand colouring of the highlights, small white tinted areas, to bring the amazing image to life.
We acquired this piece of antique art mounted professionally in a frame. As this was done some years ago the presentation has been professionally updated. The old glass was replaced with high quality clear acrylic glass with UV protection to keep the artwork in the best possible condition. All sections were carefully cleaned, placed into the original double mounts and ebonised frame. The artwork was photographed for originality. Now ready for home or business display.
An exquisite piece, beautifully presented.
Product summary
- Place Of Origin: Italy
- Material: Paper, Ink, Wood & Acrylic Glass
- Manufacturer Marks & Inscriptions: No
- Period: 18th Century, 1766-67
- Provenance: No
- Frame Size: Width 88.5cm (35 inches) x Height 53.5cm (21 inches) x Thickness 2.5cm (1 inch) approx.
- Displayed Area Size: Width 66.5cm (26.25 inches) x Height 32cm (12.5 inches) approx.
- Artwork Size: Width 70cm (27.5 inches) x Height 42cm (16.5 inches) approx. Top and bottom of the pages have a folded edge of 3cm (1.25 inches)- making the overall height of the pages 48cm approx.
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