STEEL ENGRAVING – “THOMAS CARLYLE” from the sculpture by J. E. Boehm, engraved by E. Roffe, published in 1886.  This engraving is in excellent condition.  The actual picture measures 7 ¼” x 4 ¼”, and is matted to 11” x 14” for easy framing.

         A most successful piece of portrait-sculpture is Mr. J. E. Boehm’s strong and vital presentation of Thomas Carlyle, of which Mr. Ruskin said that it was so noble that he could not trust himself to express his personal gratitude.  Such art would do credit to any country in the world, and its value lies, it will be seen, in the classic simplicity, directness, frankness, and dignity of its treatment, without accessories to disturb or even enhance the force of the expression.  The old philosopher of Chelsea is seated absolutely at his ease in an arm-chair, his plain morning-gown of woolen stuff, which extends his feet, wrapped about him.  His hands, in which the veins appear prominent, are closed on his lap.  His short gray beard and thick iron-gray hair are disposed very much at their will; and a certain querulousness in the eyes and brow suggests very effectively those episodes in his domestic life which Mr. Froude has recently communicated for the delectation of the curious.  At the same time, the thoughtfulness and nonchalance characteristic of the man are depicted with full force, and we seem to see the author of the “Sartor Resartus” in his dominant mood.  The interest of this fine piece of work possess an abiding charm. The subject was one that offered fine possibilities to sculpture, and the sculptor has availed himself of them.  It was first exhibition at the Royal Academy in 1875.   Mr. Boehm is of Austrian birth (1834), but settled in London in 1862.  He has executed a number of important works, notably the colossal statue of the Queen at Windsor.

IMPORTANT TO NOTE

Engravings, and lithographs are printing processes, which use steel, copper, stone or wood blocks or plates to produce a picture on paper.

Most antique prints and engravings, which are seen on the internet today, are bookplates.  Because they are pages from a book, there are multiple copies in existence.  This does not, however, mean that they are "reproductions" that have been printed recently.  Because they were, at some point, part of books, some have been preserved in excellent condition, while others show signs of age, as yellow spots or darkness on the edge of the page from being handled.

Engravings, and lithographs are high quality pieces of art, as it took a highly trained artist many hours of work to produce one.  Although there may be multiple copies still in existence, the date of the item should be stated, thus giving the buyer an idea of its age.