Holbein portrait of an Unidentified Man. Bartolozzi engraving c1797.

by Holbein, Hans

Antique print of Hans Holbein portrait. Unidentified Man, engraved by Bartolozzi c1797.

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, laid on 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 1797 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 appears to have been trimmed to smaller size, but otherwise the paper is in fine condition. To the engraved border measures 270 x 210 mm (10 5/8 x 8 1/4 inches). Edge of tissue laid down all round, measures 362 x 248 mm (14 1/4 x 9 3/4 inches). External page size 452 x 353 mm (17 5/8 x 13 7/8 inches).