17th Century Copperplate Engraving - Francis Willughby

Antiques : Art

 

This original, hand colored, copperplate engraving is from the first edition of Francis Willughby’s: De Historia Piscium Libri Quatuor. The print was drawn and engraved by Willughby and John Ray and published by the Royal Society in London in 1686. This print is in very good condition and measures 9.5” X 14” with a platemark at 7.5” X 13.25”. The coloring remains bright and fresh. 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. Francis Willughby was a Fellow of the Royal Society in England. As the Society published this work, there is a “dedication” to a Society member in the left margin of the plate. This particular print is dedicated to Samuel Pepys (1633 – 1701). Pepys is best known for his comprehensive diary of dialy life in England from 1660 through 1669, which included fires, plagues, etc. From his obituary: “He was universally belov'd, hospitable, generous, learned in many things, skilfd in music, a very greate cherisher of learned men of whom he had the conversation.”

Item ID: willfish04