Late 19th Century John Seymour Lucas "The Astrologer", Engraving by Joseph Desmannez

Description

an original 19th century engraving
It portrays a very interesting subject, a 17th century astrologer, surrounded by his instruments; a … more an original 19th century engraving
It portrays a very interesting subject, a 17th century astrologer, surrounded by his instruments; a globe, a microscope, a map, a leather clad big ancient book
The printed text under the image reads from left to right: S Lucas pinxt / Astrologer / From the picture in the possession of the publishers/ J Demanez scuplt
At the very bottom is the publishing firm - London Virtue & Co Ltd

The original oil on canvas painting was rendered by John Seymour Lucas (1849-1923), a Victorian English historical and portrait painter as well as an accomplished theatrical costume designer. Renowned artist in his day, his painting style and themes resonated with the core themes of Imperial Great Britain. Foremost a historical genre painter with a particular talent for realism in the depiction of costumes and interiors. Inspired by van Dyck and particularly Diego Velazquez, he excelled in depicting scenes from the British 16th to 18th century Tudor and Stuart periods, including the Spanish Armada defeat, the English Civil War and the Jacobite rebellions
The presented here image well illustrates these interests
The engraved copper plate was made by Joseph Desmannez (Belgian, 1826-1902) who worked in Antwerp, and whose work became part of many major art museums' collections, such as the British Museum and the Musee d'Orsay
Circa mid/third quarter of the 19th century, but before 1879, when the Virtue and Co. publishing firm became James Virtue & Co.
All original

Measurements: Approx. 12.8" x 9.5" the sheet; 9.75" x 7.75" the scene
Weighs about
Condition: Very Good overall. Please see photos. Discoloration at the corners of the back support sheet from previous mounting, not affecting the scene. All original. less