Antique Print of the Great Seal of Queen Anne – Rapin’s History of England 1786
US$538
Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)
Date
1786
Technique
Copperplate engraving with later hand coloring
Sheet size
39.7 × 24 cm (15.6 × 9.4 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-04881
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 summary: Very good antique condition. Sheet with light toning and minimal handling marks to the margins, strong clean impression with clear golden details. Small tear in the right border, touching the image.
About this sheet
Great Seal of Queen Anne – Rapin’s History of England c.1786 This antique print depicts the Great Seal of Queen Anne, originating from The History of England by Mr. Rapin de Thoyras, published circa 1786. The finely detailed copperplate engraving shows both the obverse and reverse of Queen Anne’s seal, beautifully hand colored in regal gold tones.
The upper medallion presents Queen Anne enthroned beneath an architectural canopy, crowned and robed, holding the orb and sceptre, signifying her sovereign power and divine right to rule. Surrounding her are symbolic figures representing justice, strength, and wisdom, while cherubs support the royal arms above. The Latin inscription proclaims Anne as Queen of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith.
The lower medallion depicts Queen Anne seated on horseback in full regalia, with sceptre and crown, affirming her royal authority and military command. The detailed background with landscape and heraldic symbolism emphasizes her reign as the first monarch of Great Britain after the Act of Union with Scotland in 1707.
Condition summary: Very good antique condition. Sheet with light toning and minimal handling marks to the margins, strong clean impression with clear golden details. Small tear in the right border, touching the image.
Framing tips: For an elegant presentation, mount this historical seal print in a gilt or dark wood frame to complement the gold details, with a deep burgundy or royal blue mat to enhance its regal theme. Ideal for traditional libraries, British royal collections, or historical educational displays.
