Holbein portrait of Lady Vaux. Bartolozzi engraving c1793.

by Holbein, Hans

Classical portraiture. Lady Vaux Holbein portrait antique print c1793. Lady Elizabeth Vaux was the wife of Thomas Vaux, 2nd Baron Vaux of Harrowden.

A fine example of Holbein's portraiture, this is a stipple engraving by Francesco Bartolozzi R.A. (1727-1815), Historical Engraver to his Majesty George III. Bartolozzi was one of the finest of all engravers and perfected the art of stippled engraving after his arrival in London from Italy. In 1768 Francesco Bartolozzi was a foundation member of the Royal Academy in London. This portrait engraving was printed on tissue, with corners attached to heavier paper for publication in a series of “Imitations of Original Drawings by Hans Holbein, in the collection of His Majesty, for the portraits of illustrious persons of the court of Henry VIII” by Hans Holbein (the Younger) (1497-1543). Published in London circa 1793 by the Keeper of the King’s Drawings and Medals and Fellow of the Society of Artists, John Chamberlaine.

This engraving on tissue is in very fine condition. The paper backing has been folded back at top and base, to facilitate previous framing. There is very faint foxing and age discolouration at edges of this page. To the engraved border measures 280 x 213mm (11 x 8 3/8 inches). To plate mark measures 332 x 273 mm (13 1/4 x 10 3/8 inches). Complete page measures 54 x 42cm (21 1/4 x 16 3/8 inches).