$425
A pair of engravings from "The Heads of Illustrious Persons of Great Britain, engraven by Mr. Houbracken, and Mr. Vertue, with their Lives and Characters by Thomas Birch", published in London by John and Paul Knapton in several editions between 1742-1756, copper engravings on paper. Both engravings by Jacobus Houbraken (Dutch, 1698-1780), one after Isaac Oliver being a self portrait of the artist but incorrectly cited within plate above image as being of Ben Johnson (English playwright, 1572-1637), with portrait at bust length and set within a faux oval medallion upheld by a infant nude satyr surrounded by traditional items representing the ideals of Comedy and Tragedy; and one after Sir Godfrey Kneller (German/ English, 1646-1723) of John Dryden (English playwright and poet, 1631-1700), with portrait at bust length and set within a faux oval medallion surrounded by drapery, books, a mask, and a lyre. Each with certificate of authenticity label to verso from Eugene O'Karma. Framed approximately 23 1/2" x 18", sight size approximately 14 3/4" x 9 1/8".
Auctioneer:
Ahlers & Ogletree Auction Gallery
Date:
2015-03-21
