Art, Myth & Old Masters · 18th century
€ 110
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Good condition overall for its age, with light age toning and minor handling wear. Some small spots and light discoloration visible in the margins.
Small Homer Bust Portrait Engraving after Burney, Classical Print, 1794
This elegant late 18th-century engraving depicts the ancient Greek poet Homer, shown as a classical marble bust within an ornamental circular frame. Published in London in 1794, the print was engraved by Thomas Holloway after a drawing by Burney and was produced with special permission from the celebrated bust preserved in the British Museum. The composition reflects the refined neoclassical taste of Georgian England, combining archaeological interest with decorative sophistication.
Homer, traditionally regarded as the author of the Iliad and the Odyssey, was one of the most revered literary figures of the ancient world. During the 18th century, classical antiquity deeply influenced British intellectual and artistic culture, and engravings such as this were collected by scholars, aristocrats, and admirers of ancient history. The image presents Homer with a contemplative downward gaze, emphasizing wisdom, age, and poetic authority. The carefully engraved linear background and architectural framing create a restrained yet highly decorative effect.
The lower register includes a finely engraved classical frieze populated with mythological and ceremonial figures, reinforcing the antique aesthetic of the work. At the bottom, the inscription reads: “Engraved by Holloway after a drawing by Burney, taken by special permission from the Bust in the British Museum.” The publication line states: “London, Printed for Martin & Bain, Fleet Street, 22 Feb. 1794.”
Thomas Holloway was among the finest English line engravers of the late 18th century, known for his highly detailed and precise work. His engravings after classical subjects and historical paintings were widely admired for their technical finesse. This print reflects the refined engraving techniques of the period, with delicate hatching and subtle tonal transitions used to imitate the appearance of sculpted marble.
The small print works beautifully in both traditional and modern interiors. Its monochrome palette and classical imagery make it especially suitable for libraries, studies, gallery walls, or interiors inspired by neoclassical or Grand Tour aesthetics. It pairs particularly well with dark walnut, ebonized, or gilt frames combined with a warm ivory mat.
Condition: Good condition overall for its age, with light age toning and minor handling wear. Some small spots and light discoloration visible in the margins.
Framing tips: Particularly attractive in a dark walnut or black lacquer frame with a wide cream or ivory mat. A thin gilt fillet can enhance the neoclassical appearance and emphasize the refined engraved detail.
Technique: Copper engraving
Maker: Thomas Holloway after Burney, London, 1794
NOTE: The print is an original antique engraving, not a reproduction. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The piece is sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale.
