Amsterdam: Mid-19th Century Hand-Colored Steel Engraving by Bourgin, Paris
€ 160
Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)
Sheet size
16.3 × 26 cm (6.4 × 10.2 in)
Reference
BG-13094-19
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
Good, given age. General age-related toning and/or occasional minor defects from handling. Nicely hand-colored. Two small tape remains on reverse. Please study scan carefully.
About this sheet
This hand-colored engraving depicts a maritime scene in Amsterdam, capital of The Netherlands. The view shows the bustling waterfront, with sailboats navigating through choppy waters near the city’s piers. To the right of the image are the classic Dutch gabled buildings and a prominent tower, typical of Amsterdam’s architecture, which suggests the urban center’s close connection to the sea and trade. People are seen walking along the wooden docks, adding a sense of daily activity to the scene.
Maker and Technique: - The print was created by Bourgin (del. & sc.), who is both the draftsman ("del." stands for "delineavit," meaning "he/she drew it") and the engraver ("sc." stands for "sculpsit," meaning "he/she engraved it"). - The engraving was published by Furne, based in Paris, which is indicated below the image. - This is a hand-colored steel engraving, a common technique in the 19th century. After the image was engraved into a steel plate, it was printed and then meticulously hand-colored to add depth and detail to the scene.
Year: - Although the exact year is not specified on the print itself, based on the style and technique, it likely dates to the mid-19th century, around 1850–1860. This period corresponds to a time when hand-colored engravings of European cities were popular for both educational and decorative purposes.
This particular print reflects Amsterdam’s maritime heritage, captured through the fine detailing and vibrant hand-coloring that bring the scene to life.
