Europe as a Whole · 18th century
€ 159
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Very good impression with minor foxing and light age toning. Plate mark clearly visible. Strong paper with full margins.
Monument of King Edward IV – Antique Engraving of St George’s Chapel, Windsor, 1790
This finely detailed antique engraving shows the monument of King Edward IV, located in St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle. The composition centers on the architectural structure of the monument, with a pointed arch framing an ornate memorial plaque. At the top, two winged cherubs support a regal cartouche surmounted by the English crown and flanked by fleurs-de-lis. Beneath, the inscription reads “Edward 4th,” with classical motifs including pilasters and moulding enhancing the monument's solemn grandeur. Below the main monument is a smaller inset featuring a plan of the tomb site and an engraved seal bearing the king’s emblem.
The print was engraved by James Basire (1730–1802), a distinguished British engraver known for his antiquarian works, especially for the Society of Antiquaries. The design is attributed to Henry Emlyn (c.1729–1815), an architect and antiquarian active in Windsor, who was responsible for several restoration works at St George’s Chapel. The plate likely dates to around 1790, coinciding with the growing Georgian-era interest in Gothic Revival and historical preservation.
This piece is a compelling example of late 18th-century antiquarian engraving, combining architectural precision with historic reverence. It offers a rare view of a royal monument with visual clarity and scholarly detail, making it a valuable acquisition for collectors of British royal history, funerary art, or early English engravings.
Condition: Very good impression with minor foxing and light age toning. Plate mark clearly visible. Strong paper with full margins.
Framing tips: This print would benefit from a charcoal gray or muted gold frame and a warm ivory mat, which will enhance its historical character while providing contrast to the monochrome engraving.
Overall size: 35 x 54 cm.
Image size: 0.001 x 28 x 46 cm.
