Pair of Framed Wedgwood Neoclassical Lithographs, Plate XLV and XXIX

Attributed to William Griggs, circa 1880, this pair of lithographs in hand-painted black frames depict a set of Neoclassical Wedgwood amphora vases. Both prints are on cream paper, and the vases have dry-bodied colors associated with Wedgwood products and traces of shadows emanating from the bases, giving the vases a life-like appearance.

Plate XXIX
Three vases depicting Neoclassical scenes, further adorned with foliage, repeating keys, beading, and mascaron handles.
All three with unpainted elements, presenting as white. The smallest vase in the center is black dip, while the other two are cobalt blue (on the left) and yellow dip (on the right).
The bottom right of the print reads “W. Griggs. Chromo 11th. Peckham”

Plate XLV
A pair of vases, one colored yellow dip (left) and the other cobalt blue (right), both with unpainted areas of white. The main body of the cobalt vase has a tartan pattern of blue and white, with small quatrefoil leaves on the white and various foliate motifs along the lid, neck, and base. Garland swags above a Neoclassical scene embellish the yellow dip vase, with various leaf forms adding décor.
The bottom right of the print reads “W. Griggs”.

William Griggs, born in 1832 in England, invented a printing process known as chromolithography, that allowed for colored prints to be produced. While living in Peckham, Griggs manufactured photolithographic works as early as 1868. In the late 1800s, Griggs produced a series of lithographs with Wedgwood urns as subjects.

CONDITION: Very good antique condition. Rubs and losses to the frames, which were painted more recently (presence of original gilt finish is visible in some areas). Rigged for hanging purposes. The frames and glass were added more recently.

H - 18 5/8, W - 24 3/4, D - 1 1/2