Sea Charts · 19th century
€ 90
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Good, given age. General age-related toning and/or occasional minor defects from handling. A small tear in de lower edge. Please study scan carefully.
This captivating uncolored steel engraving presents a lively scene of Billingsgate Market, known in the 19th century as the epicenter of London's fish trade. The print teems with the energy of market life, featuring a tangle of masted fishing boats docked at the bustling port, their sails loftily unfurled. Each vessel is rendered with meticulous attention to rigging and design, indicative of the diverse fishing craft that frequented the Thames.
Foreground activity showcases fishmongers and laborers engaged in the daily commerce, unloading their catch against the backdrop of the iconic London architecture. The market buildings and surrounding structures are depicted with precise architectural detail, from window panes to brickwork, echoing the Georgian style prevalent during the era.
The river itself is a study in contrast, with the calm of the water juxtaposing the busy trade upon its banks. The detailed rendering of the water’s surface reflects the engraver’s skill in capturing the varied textures of the scene.
Framing the central image, the border is a masterpiece in its own right, adorned with nautical and allegorical elements that complement the maritime theme. Intricate Gothic Revival motifs flank the sides, enhancing the print's historical allure.
This print not only provides a window into the commercial vibrancy of 19th-century London but also exemplifies the artistry of steel engraving, with its intricate line work and capacity for fine detail. It is an exemplary piece for collectors and historians alike, offering a glimpse into the everyday workings of one of London's most famed markets.
Maker: The artist who drew the original scene (referred to as 'delin' or 'del' for delineavit, meaning 'he/she drew it') and the engraver ('sculp' or 'sculpsit', meaning 'he/she engraved it') are not specified in the information provided. Their identities would likely be found in the lower margin of the print, which typically credits the creator of the original drawing and the craftsman who engraved the plate.
Publisher: The print indicates that it was published by Tombleson & Co., located at 11 Paternoster Row. They were known for producing views of the Thames and other landscapes in the 1830s.
Work: The specific work or series this print belongs to isn't provided in the information shared, but based on the style and the publisher, it is likely part of a collection of engravings that depict various scenes around London or along the River Thames. Such series were fashionable in the 19th century, serving both as collectibles and educational compilations illustrating notable locations throughout London.
The print would have been available for purchase either individually or as part of a bound collection, and would appeal to those with an interest in London's history, maritime commerce, and the art of engraving.
