Views of Dutch Vessels – Maritime Engraving after 1684 Drawing, Published 1802

Maritime · 17th century

Views of Dutch Vessels – Maritime Engraving after 1684 Drawing, Published 1802

€ 220

Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)

Date: 1684
Mapmaker / artist: James Heath after Van der Meulen, London, 1802
Technique: Engraving
Sheet size: 34.5 × 40 cm (13.6 × 15.7 in)
Condition: Good
Reference: BG-02315

What the condition grades mean

Excellent: Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
Very good: Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
Good: Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
Fair: Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.

Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.

Condition

Very good condition. Strong impression with even tone. Minor age-related toning and slight edge wear outside image area. Plate mark visible. Protected by matting board.

About this sheet

Views of Dutch Vessels – Maritime Engraving after 1684 Drawing, Published 1802
This finely executed engraving, published in 1802, depicts a pair of Dutch vessels at sea, based on an original drawing from 1684. The ships are portrayed moored side by side, their sails furled and draped over spars, giving a calm and quiet impression of maritime life during the Dutch Golden Age.

The boats shown are small, working vessels typical of 17th-century Dutch coastal or inland waters. Their bluff bows, high sides, and heavy hulls reflect practical construction used in the fishing or cargo trade. The prominent vertical masts and rigging remain in place, adding a sense of scale and nautical character. The scene is atmospheric, with sweeping clouds and a rippling sea rendered in subtle tones.

At lower left is the name of the draughtsman: "Van der Meulen delt." (delin.), referring to the original artist, likely inspired by the school of Dutch marine painters or possibly based on the work of Adam Frans van der Meulen or a namesake. Engraved by "Heath sculp." at lower right, indicating the plate was cut by James Heath, one of the most respected British engravers of the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

The caption below reads: "Views of Dutch Vessels. 1684."
The plate was published by Cadell & Davies in London on March 1st, 1802, as part of a broader effort to document and reproduce notable works from earlier centuries in high-quality engravings.

This print offers both artistic and historical interest and is well-suited for collectors of Dutch maritime art, naval history enthusiasts, or decorative display in coastal interiors.

Condition report:
Very good condition. Strong impression with even tone. Minor age-related toning and slight edge wear outside image area. Plate mark visible. Protected by matting board.

Framing tips:
Frame in dark wood or black with a light ivory or pale gray mat to bring out the sepia and gray tonal values. Ideal for nautical-themed spaces or period-style interiors.