Portrait of Archibald Bower, Scottish Librarian to Queen Caroline, circa 1800
€ 99
Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)
Date
1800
Sheet size
21 × 19 cm (8.3 × 7.5 in)
Condition
Excellent
Reference
BG-140035-12
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
Condition with crisp lines, mounted and ready for display.
About this sheet
This finely detailed line engraving portrays Archibald Bower (1686–1766), a prominent Scottish historian and author. Created by the renowned English engraver Thomas Holloway (1748–1827), the print is based on a portrait by George Knapton (1698–1778), a celebrated English artist and the first officially appointed portrait painter for the British Royal Family.
Bower was best known for his multivolume work "The History of the Popes," which explored the historical development of the papacy. His life was marked by controversy, including his conversion between Catholicism and Protestantism, which added complexity to his historical narratives.
Holloway’s engraving beautifully captures the essence of Knapton’s original, presenting Bower in a contemplative pose, with exquisite attention to detail in the textures of his clothing and expression. This piece exemplifies the artistry of 18th-century portraiture and engraving, offering a glimpse into the intellectual and artistic achievements of the era.
This print is a valuable addition for collectors of historical portraits, antique engravings, or anyone interested in the life and works of Archibald Bower.
