Science & Education
€ 170
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
This antique print is in very good condition, with minor foxing and age-related toning that add to its antique charm. The hand coloring remains vibrant and true to its original palette.
Agricultural Print: Ploughing in the Campagna di Roma, 1820s Hand-Colored Engraving
This engaging hand-colored engraving, titled "Ploughing in the Campagna di Roma," captures the quiet dignity and timeless rhythms of Italian agricultural life in the early 19th century. Published in the 1820s by Baldwin, Cradock & Joy, this work is part of an ethnographic series that recorded the traditional occupations and landscapes of Italy with a picturesque and informative eye.
The scene depicts farmers ploughing the fertile plains of the Roman countryside, known as the Campagna di Roma, using a team of sturdy white oxen. Dressed in simple work clothes of bright red and blue, the central figure stands attentively at the plough, his posture suggesting both effort and expertise. The oxen, shown in profile, are depicted with lifelike detail, highlighting their essential role in traditional Italian farming.
In the foreground, a wooden yoke and water jug rest on the grassy earth, symbols of the daily toil and sustenance that define rural life. The background reveals a gentle landscape of low hills and smoky farmsteads, with a few other farmers continuing the age-old cycle of tilling and sowing. The carefully applied hand coloring brings warmth and vitality to the natural greens and earthy browns of the fields, while the figures’ bright clothing stands out with cheerful contrast.
Such prints were treasured by travelers and collectors alike, offering a romanticized yet authentic glimpse into Italian rural life. They were a testament to the enduring relationship between man and the land, celebrating the honest labor and pastoral tranquility that characterized the Italian countryside.
Condition:
This antique print is in very good condition, with some light age-related foxing and minor edge wear that add to its historical charm. The colors remain vivid and the engraved lines sharp and detailed.
Framing tips:
For an elegant and timeless display, pair this print with a neutral cream or soft beige mat and a warm wooden or antique gold frame. This will harmonize with the earthy hues and highlight the scene’s idyllic simplicity, creating a warm and welcoming focal point in any traditional or rustic interior.
