“Love & Hope” and “Love & Jealousy” — Pair of 18th-Century English Stipple Engravings After Henry Bunbury, 1786

Details

Description

A finely preserved and evocative pair of English stipple engravings with etching, dated 1786 and executed after the designs of … Read more A finely preserved and evocative pair of English stipple engravings with etching, dated 1786 and executed after the designs of Henry Bunbury (1750–1811), a popular satirical draughtsman of the late Georgian period. Titled Love & Hope and Love & Jealousy, these romantic allegories were engraved by Charles Knight and published in London on December 1, 1786, by W. Dickinson, Engraver & Printseller, No. 158 New Bond Street.

Each scene is rendered with exceptional delicacy and expression, capturing the sentimental and moralizing tone popular in English decorative prints of the period. The inscriptions read:
“H. Bunbury Esqr. Delint.” and “C. Knight fecit”

Presented in their original oval gilt gesso frames, which appear to have been painted black at some point in their history. The delicate gilt beading remains visible, offering a handsome contrast and period authenticity.

Details:
• Origin: England
• Date: 1786
• Medium: Stipple engraving with etching on laid paper
• Artist: After Henry Bunbury, engraved by Charles Knight
• Publisher: W. Dickinson, London
• Frames: Original 18th-century gesso frames with later black paint; gilt beaded inner edge
• Condition: Light toning and age-related wear; frames show typical signs of age, with some surface irregularities
• Dimensions (each, framed): Approx. 10” H x 8.5” W x 1.25” D

Why We Love Them:
Romantic, refined, and historically resonant—this pair brings a touch of 18th-century charm to any wall. They would be stunning flanking a mirror or grouped with other neoclassical or Georgian artworks for a collected, scholarly look. See less