Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)
Date
1700
Mapmaker / artist
Pieter Mortier, Amsterdam, circa 1700
Technique
Copper engraving
Sheet size
45 × 28 cm (17.7 × 11.0 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-12063-78, -79, -80
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
With general age-related toning, light foxing, and minor edge wear. Original margins preserved. Please review the images for further condition details.
This rare and decorative set consists of three early-18th-century biblical copper engravings, each sheet engraved with two narrative scenes, published by Pieter Mortier in Amsterdam circa 1700. Together, the three sheets present a coherent visual cycle of six Old and New Testament episodes, framed within finely engraved ornamental borders and title cartouches typical of Dutch Baroque religious printmaking.
The engravings depict a wide range of biblical events with strong narrative clarity. One sheet illustrates apocalyptic scenes from the Book of Revelation, including the fall of the wicked under divine judgment and the appearance of symbolic beasts representing evil powers. Another sheet focuses on the story of Jacob, showing the famous dream of Jacob’s ladder with angels ascending and descending, followed by scenes of pastoral life and Jacob among flocks and figures in a lush landscape. The final sheet continues the Genesis cycle, depicting Jacob’s encampment with his family and livestock, and a later scene of confrontation and reconciliation, likely representing his encounter with Esau, rendered with expressive figures and a strong sense of movement.
Mortier’s workshop was renowned for its clarity of line, balanced compositions, and ability to translate complex biblical narratives into visually compelling scenes. These engravings combine dramatic storytelling with classical and pastoral settings, characteristic of late-17th- and early-18th-century Dutch religious printmaking. The mix of Old Testament patriarchal scenes and New Testament apocalyptic visions creates a visually engaging and thematically rich set suitable for both collectors and interior display.
Condition: Good, with general age-related toning, light foxing, and minor edge wear. Original margins preserved. Please study images carefully.
Framing tips: Ideal for a vertical hanging arrangement or as a balanced grouping. Dark wood or ebonized frames with wide ivory mats enhance contrast and detail, while simple black frames provide a more contemporary presentation.
Special note: This is an original antique engraving, not a reproduction. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The print is sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale.
