This is a magnificent engraving in a stunning antique gold frame—but there are condition issues with the print for you to consider.

Over the last year I acquired three of these engravings. One was just a fragment that enabled me to compare the engraving with the two, a third that appears to be the same, with the same engraver credited, without the same visual impact. On closer inspection, one sees that the other engraving didn't have as much cross hatching, so the image wasn't as bold or as detailed.

Which brings us to the one offered here. There is some obvious discoloration in the border. To address this I took it to one of the nation's leading conservation organizations and paid them to evaluate the condition. They took it out of the frame and inspected it, and provided a detailed report on what would need to be done. It turned out that there had been some backing applied to stabilize the sheet and to help address some breaks which I had never noticed until they were pointed out. You can see them in the close up photo of his outstretched hand, where the break extends vertically from his hand and then horizontally along the lower edge of the drape.

Their estimate to make the repairs exceeded $5,000. It clearly didn't make sense to add that much cost to this piece since you don't really see the breaks when you step back a couple of feet.

When I put it back together, I put a piece of UV-protecting non-glare acrylic over the print and then the old glass over that. As a result, you have the charm and authenticity of the old glass without the concern of having the print exposed to the sun. (I also used archival frame sealing tape over the rabbet to keep the print from touching the wood frame and acid-free backing board.)

It's a stunning engraving in an elegant frame that would make a strong statement wherever it is hung.

— Lee Wright | Founder

Size of frame: 21.25" x 29.25"

Size of print: 18.5" x 26.5"

Shipping: $55. Please allow two weeks for shipping.