A pair of old mezzotint engravings after two works by the famous German artist Johann Heinrich Ramburg.

Framed around 1985 they were authenticated at the time as 200 years old and dating to 1785 which corresponds to a printing by William Pether published by Birchall. Labels to backs guarantee the authenticity although I have no proof. The originals were on oblong sheets of paper but had an inner oval surround, these two look to have been trimmed as ovals. I have not had the backs of which are wooden boarded. Under a magnifying glass there are no pixels or dots.

Ramburg 1763 to 1840 was born in Hanover and met our King George III, Johann made humorous skecthes and caracatures for the King and was encouraged to move to London where George III provided support, indeed he exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1782 at only 19 years old, he won the silver medal for life drawing in 1784 and produced portraits for the British Royal family at the time.

 These two works are titled The Returning Soldier and A Sailors Farewell ( or Departure ). They measure 23 inches x 18 in total and have gilt finish wooden frames.

In good condition, colours fairly muted understandably, frames have wear to gilt finish which I like but could be refinished. Inspection welcome.

Examples of these hand tinted engravings are held in The British Museum. An unframed example is for sale at over 400 dollars online. 

Rare and interesting pieces, good luck. 

No postage, collection only. 

Please see my other items.