Gustave Doré original wood engraved printing block –for world famous print of "Expulsion from the Garden of Eden" 

This is the original wood block that was engraved for the famous 1866 Bible that Gustave Dore illustrated with wood engraved prints. This engraving depicts one of the most crucial stories of Old Testament, the expulsion of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden. It has been in a single family's collection since 1906, when it was acquired in Europe. The block (and mirror image print) is signed on lower left and right by Doré and the engraver he worked with, H. Pisan. Measurements: 10 x 8 x 13/16 inches.

Condition: The 148-year-old engraved block is in very good condition, with some separation between sections, shown in the photos. The block consists of nine sections of boxwood, glued together, polished, and then engraved, then inked for printing. There is a slight reddish body color in addition to the black ink on the surface, which is typical of Doré's engravings. The block's surface shows a few superficial scratches, also easily seen in the photos. Larger images can be sent upon request.

Two Dore wood engraved blocks, including this one, were acquired when the owner's great-grandfather was working with Buffalo Bill's Wild West show while it toured Europe at the turn of the last century. They were handed down through the generations until today.

Shown too is an image of the print, from a book on Doré's work. This auction is for the WOOD BLOCK ONLY.

Shipping by FedEx in USA and USPS Express International for international destinations.

Please feel free to contact the seller for more information.