Entrance to the Caves: A 19th Century Hand-Colored Lithograph, 1843

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"Entrance To The Caves Of Beni Hasan" is a 19th century half-folio sized tinted duo-tone lithograph from the "The Holy … Read more "Entrance To The Caves Of Beni Hasan" is a 19th century half-folio sized tinted duo-tone lithograph from the "The Holy Land, Syria, Idumea, Arabia, Egypt and Nubia" volume 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 the greatest lithographically illustrated works issued in the 19th century.

This half page duo-tone tinted lithograph depicts the entrance to the cave tombs at Beni Hasan. It is an Egyptian archaeological site on the eastern bank of the Nile approximately 155 miles south of Cairo. It dates from the Middle Kingdom (1938-1630 BCE). It is known for its 39 rock-cut tombs for 11th- and 12th-dynasty officials. Some of these tombs are adorned with painted scenes and hieroglyphic decriptions of daily life in ancient Egypt.In this scene, goats and people are seen in the foreground outside of the columned entrance.

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". The print, frame and mat are in excellent condition. Two additional David Roberts' identically framed and matted lithographs of Egypt are available on 1stdibs, which would make a beautiful display grouping of two or three prints. Please see listings: LU117326087922 and LU117326087912. A discount is available for of two or three of these prints.

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 he 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