1802 Hand-Colored Print of English Racing Horse and Race Track Scene
€ 160
Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)
Date
1802
Sheet size
25.2 × 19 cm (9.9 × 7.5 in)
Reference
BG-13292-75
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
Light foxing and slight edge wear consistent with age; colors remain vivid.
About this sheet
This finely detailed hand-colored copperplate engraving from Friedrich Johann Bertuch's "Bilderbuch für Kinder" (Picture Book for Children), published in Weimar in 1802, features two captivating equestrian-themed images. The first depicts an elegant English racing horse or courser, a breed known for its speed and agility, standing in profile against a minimal natural background. The animal's form is rendered with precision, emphasizing its muscular structure and refined posture.
Below, a lively scene unfolds at an English horse race track, capturing the dynamic energy of riders and horses mid-race. The composition is rich with action: jockeys urging their mounts forward, a rider falling from his horse, and spectators observing the thrilling event. This scene offers a glimpse into the 19th-century fascination with horse racing as a sport and social event.
The engraving demonstrates the artistry of copperplate printing, where intricate details are etched into a metal plate, inked, and transferred to paper. Hand-coloring adds vibrancy to this antique piece, enhancing its visual appeal and historical significance.
This print is not only a celebration of equestrian art but also a testament to early 19th-century cultural interests. Its dual focus on the beauty of the individual horse and the excitement of the race track makes it a unique and engaging collector's item.
Tips for matting and framing: Highlight the dual imagery with a double-window mat in a neutral tone. Use a sleek black or mahogany frame to complement its equestrian elegance. Consider UV-protective glass for preservation.
