Grand Antique Vase engraved by Henry Moses c1811.

by Moses, Henry

Spectacular small antique print of a Vase in the possession of His Grace the Duke of Bedford. Fine antique engraving by Henry Moses for A Collection of Antique Vases, Altars, Paterea, Tripods, Candelabra and Sarcophagi, from various Museums and Collections, published in London for the second edition, c1844 (with fine later hand-colour).

Moses considered that “The study of the unrivalled works of the ancients is essential to the establishment of good taste and correct judgement, and has laid the foundation of those excellencies which have given celebrity to all the distinguished artists of modern times. Many of the most admirable productions of antiquity are however inaccessible to students, whose limited income will not allow of their travelling to see them;… I therefore conceived that I should perform an acceptable service to the lovers and professors of the Arts, if I were to select from various Museums, Collections, and Cabinets, such of the most esteemed monuments of ancient times, as would tend to improve the judgement, and refine the taste of the Student.”

Of all antiquities, Vases have provided the most admiration because of their variety, elegance of form, unusual designs, and beauty of the compositions that adorn them. To this is added the interesting information about life and beliefs in the period represented by those compositions.

Page size is approximately 240 x 175mm (9.5 x 7 inches). To intaglio impression measures 14 x 10cm (5.5 x 4 inches).