18th Century Copperplate Engraving - Eugen Esper

Collectibles : Paintings, Prints

 

This original, hand colored, copperplate engraving is from Eugen Esper’s: Die Schmetterlinge in Abbildungen nach der Natur mit Beschreibungen. It was drawn by Esper, engraved by J. G. Sturm, and printed and colored in Germany in 1776. The print measures 8.5” X 11” with a well struck platemark at 6.75” X 8.75”. It is printed on hand laid, chain-link paper and is in excellent condition. Unique to Esper’s depiction of butterflies is the one unjoined wing which shows the underside coloration of the joined wing. A clever idea which removes the need to show both the back and front of the same butterfly. The print is in an acid-free environment and shrink wrapped for protection. The shrink wrap may cause some glare in the photos. Please email questions or for additional pictures.

Item ID: esper1