Art, Myth & Old Masters · 19th century
€ 430
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Very good, with even age-related toning and light foxing in the margins. Minor creasing and handling wear consistent with age. Plate mark visible, as expected.
Augustus Caesar Portrait, Antique Engraving, Roman Empire, 1826 London
This refined portrait of Augustus Caesar was engraved in London in 1826 for the Encyclopaedia Londinensis, an important early 19th-century scholarly publication that sought to illustrate history, science, and classical antiquity through finely executed plates. The engraving is based on a drawing attributed to Titian (“Titian del.”) and engraved by J. Pass (“J. Pass sc.”), reflecting the continued influence of Renaissance artistic models on neoclassical printmaking.
The composition presents Augustus in a dignified oval bust format, a visual language inspired by ancient Roman medallions and sculptural portraiture. Unlike the more martial depictions of Julius Caesar, Augustus is portrayed with a calm and composed expression, emphasizing his role as the first Roman emperor and the architect of a new political order following the fall of the Republic. His draped toga and classical styling reinforce the ideals of stability, authority, and refined leadership associated with his reign.
Executed in delicate copperplate engraving, the print displays exceptional control of line and tonal variation. Fine cross-hatching and subtle gradations create a sculptural sense of depth, particularly in the facial features and background, echoing the appearance of carved marble busts. The oval framing enhances the classical character of the image, making it both historically meaningful and visually balanced.
Augustus Caesar (63 BC – AD 14) was the founder of the Roman Empire and one of the most influential figures in Western history. His reign ushered in the Pax Romana, a long period of relative peace and prosperity. Prints such as this were intended to educate and inspire, bringing iconic figures of antiquity into the intellectual and decorative spaces of the 19th century.
A timeless and elegant decorative piece, this engraving is particularly well suited to studies, libraries, and refined interiors. Its restrained palette and classical subject matter make it easy to integrate into both traditional and contemporary settings.
Condition: Very good, with even age-related toning and light foxing in the margins. Minor creasing and handling wear consistent with age. Plate mark visible, as expected.
Framing tips: Best presented in a dark walnut or ebonized frame with a wide ivory mat to emphasize the oval composition and enhance its classical aesthetic.
This example is an original antique engraving printed in 1826. It is not a modern reproduction. Any images showing the print framed are for visual inspiration only. The print is supplied unframed.
Technique: Copperplate engraving
Maker: J. Pass, after Titian, London, 1826
Keywords: Augustus Caesar, Caesar Augustus, Roman Empire, Roman emperor, ancient Rome, Roman history, classical antiquity, antique engraving, 19th century print, 1826 engraving, Encyclopaedia Londinensis, London engraving, British engraving, copperplate engraving, historical portrait, Roman portrait, classical portrait, neoclassical engraving, oval portrait, medallion portrait, Roman bust, toga portrait, Roman costume, laurel tradition, imperial Rome, first emperor, Pax Romana, Roman politics, Roman leadership, ancient leaders, classical studies, enlightenment print, academic engraving, fine line engraving, cross hatching, monochrome print, black and white engraving, museum quality print, collectible print, antique print, historical figure, Western civilization, European history, Latin culture, antiquarian print, rare engraving, original print, authentic antique, over 100 years old, decorative engraving, classical figure, Roman heritage, ancient civilization, art history, printmaking history, scholarly illustration, library decor, study decor, gentleman’s study, classical interior, neoclassical interior, interior designer piece, wall art, antique wall decor, portrait print, timeless decor, elegant engraving, refined decor, heritage art, period print, collectors item, investment piece
