Peter & John Heal the Lame Man – Acts III Engraving c.1735
€ 160
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Date
1735
Sheet size
38.5 × 22.7 cm (15.2 × 8.9 in)
Condition
Fair
Reference
BG-12071-12
Condition
Fair to good condition with overall light age toning. There is a prominent water stain to the upper left margin, not affecting the engraved image, and minor foxing mainly in the margins. The plate impression remains strong with crisp engraved details.
About this sheet
This powerful antique engraving titled “Acts, Chap. III – The Lame Man healed by Peter & John” depicts one of the most memorable miracles of the early church as recorded in Acts 3:1-10. Created around 1735 for a large illustrated family Bible, this copperplate engraving shows the apostles Peter and John healing a man lame from birth at the Beautiful Gate of the Temple in Jerusalem.
At the centre of the composition, Peter, with an outstretched hand and commanding presence, speaks to the lame beggar seated on the ground, while John stands beside him in quiet support. The man gazes upwards in hope and awe as his legs are miraculously strengthened. The architectural setting is richly detailed with ornate Corinthian columns adorned with classical motifs and decorative capitals, emphasising the grandeur of the temple.
Surrounding them are onlookers reacting in wonder and astonishment, capturing the communal impact of this miracle. The engraving uses the copperplate technique with its characteristic precise line work, hatching, and cross-hatching to create depth, shading, and fine architectural detailing. While the engraver remains unidentified, the style is consistent with illustrations after designs by Gerard Hoet or Bernard Picart, widely used in English Bibles of the early 18th century.
Collectors value such engravings for their religious, historical, and artistic significance, offering a window into the devotional life of Protestant households and their visual theological education.
Condition summary: Fair to good condition with overall light age toning. There is a prominent water stain to the upper left margin, not affecting the engraved image, and minor foxing mainly in the margins. The plate impression remains strong with crisp engraved details.
Framing tips: Frame this engraving in a dark wood or black moulding with gold inner edging for a classic ecclesiastical presentation. Use a warm cream or ivory mount board to harmonise with the aged paper tones and to downplay the water stain while focusing the viewer’s eye on
