Colossal Statues of Ramses: David Roberts ' 19th Century Hand Colored Lithograph, 1843

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"One of Two Colossal Statues of Rameses II. Entrance to the Temple at Luxor" is a 19th century half-folio sized … Read more "One of Two Colossal Statues of Rameses II. Entrance to the Temple at Luxor" is a 19th century half-folio sized duo-tone lithograph from the "The Holy Land, Syria, Idumea, Arabia, Egypt and Nubia" volume I of David Roberts’ large folio edition, published in London by F. G. Moon in 1843. The lithographs were prepared by Louis Haghe (1806-1885) from drawings and paintings by Roberts. The resultant large folio editions of 'The Holy Land' and 'Egypt & Nubia' are considered by many to be the most beautifully lithographically illustrated works issued in the 19th century.

This half page duo-tone tinted lithograph depicts a colossal statue of Pharaoh Ramses II partially visible from its mid chest up to its mammoth headress. The majority of the statue still remains buried below the earth. Several Egyptians in traditional costumes stand or sit around the statue occupied in conversation. Ramses face has been deformed but other visible portions appear to be in good shape.

"One of Two Colossal Statues of Rameses II. Entrance to the Temple at Luxor" is a 19th century half-folio sized duo-tone lithograph from the "The Holy Land, Syria, Idumea, Arabia, Egypt and Nubia" volume I of David Roberts’ large folio edition, published in London by F. G. Moon in 1843. The lithographs were prepared by Louis Haghe (1806-1885) from drawings and paintings by Roberts. The resultant large folio editions of 'The Holy Land' and 'Egypt & Nubia' are considered by many to be the most beautifully lithographically illustrated works issued in the 19th century.

This beautiful tinted duo-tone lithograph is presented in an attractive antiqued gold-color frame with double cream mats and glazed with museum quality archival materials. The frame measures 23.13" x 19.63" x 1.25". There is a small spot in the upper portion of the print and small dent in the right lower frame, which are otherwise in excellent condition.

Artist: David Roberts (1796-1864) was born outside of Edinburgh, Scotland. At age 10 he became a house painter’s apprentice. He continued painting houses and eventually theater scenes in Edinburgh and then in London. His friend, J. M. W. Turner, recognized his artistic talent and encouraged him to become a full-time artist.

In 1839 Roberts traveled to Egypt and then in 1840, through the Holy Land, concluding in Jerusalem. Upon his return to England, F. G. Moon agreed to publish lithographs created by Louis Haghe from Robert’s sketches and watercolors. This publication was highly acclaimed and very popular for its esthetic quality, its historical and topographical accuracy, and Robert’s dramatic depiction of his scenes. Queen Victoria and Charles Dickens were among the subscribers who collected his works. Robert’s and Haghe’s duotone lithographs, often colored, remain extremely sought-after today and have been rising steadily in value. See less