17th Century Wenceslaus Hollar "Varie Figurae" Signed Etchings After Da Vinci — Sequentially Framed Diptych

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An extraordinary, museum-grade acquisition for serious antiquarians and fine art collectors. This exquisite presentation houses two authentic, matching 17th-century copperplate … Read more An extraordinary, museum-grade acquisition for serious antiquarians and fine art collectors. This exquisite presentation houses two authentic, matching 17th-century copperplate etchings by the legendary Baroque master printmaker Wenceslaus Hollar (1607–1677). Etched in Antwerp and dated 1645, these remarkably crisp, fine-line impressions were executed directly after original Renaissance character sketches by Leonardo da Vinci.

THE SEQUENTIAL PAIRING:
- Top Plate (The Series Title Page to "Varie Figuræ & Probæ"): Features an allegorical figure pointing to a sketch plate, inscribed in Latin with publication details: "Varie Figuræ et Probæ, Anteverpiæ, A. 1645". Explicitly signed "W. Hollar fecit" in the plate matrix. Denoted as Plate 1 with a '1' in the lower right corner.
- Bottom Plate ("Heads of Two Young Women"): A magnificent Renaissance study showcasing two women in elegant classical profile with masterfully cross-hatched wavy hair. Explicitly signed and dated "W. Hollar fecit 1645" in the upper right copper plate corner. Denoted as Plate 2.

PROVENANCE & HISTORIC PARISIAN FRAMING:
This exceptional diptych boasts a highly notable transatlantic gallery lineage. The reverse side features the rare vintage label of the historic French master framer Albert Bray (34, rue Jouffroy, Paris XVIIe), alongside a later acquisition seal from the historic Venable Neslage Galleries (Washington, D.C., Est. 1892). The prints are housed under a premium conservation mat inside a stunning, custom silver-and-gold traditional wooden gallery frame.

CONDITION:
Exceptional museum-level condition for its massive 380+ year age. The fine copperplate cross-hatching and line-work remain dark, clean, and beautifully defined. The antique laid paper sits perfectly flat within its high-end archival mount with zero tears, water stains, or foxing.

Wenceslaus Hollar, Leonardo da Vinci, 17th Century Etching, Old Master Print, Baroque Fine Art, Antique Copperplate, Renaissance Sketch, Framed Diptych Art, Albert Bray Paris, Venable Gallery, Fine Line Engraving, Collectors Graphic Art, Traditional Wall Decor, 1645 Original Print, Rare Sequential Plates See less