Antique 1881 “What’s That?” Victorian Engraving After j.h. Barnes, j.b. Pratt

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An evocative 1881 Victorian engraving titled What’s That?, after a painting by J. H. Barnes and engraved by Joseph B. … Read more An evocative 1881 Victorian engraving titled What’s That?, after a painting by J. H. Barnes and engraved by Joseph B. Pratt.

The atmospheric scene depicts a young child carrying a lantern into a dimly lit barn or stable, seemingly startled by something hidden in the shadows. Rich tonal detail and dramatic contrasts of light and dark give the image wonderful depth and character.

Published in New York in 1881 by Fishel, Adler & Co., the print retains its original printed publication and copyright inscription along the upper margin, as well as the artist and engraver credits in the lower margin.

Of particular interest, the lower margin also bears an unidentified circular blind-embossed stamp with the initials “RCM”, impressed directly into the paper without ink. The mark remains unidentified and is shown in the accompanying photographs.

Presented under glass in a warm-toned figured wood frame that complements the character and period of the engraving beautifully.

A compelling piece of authentic late-19th-century graphic art, particularly well suited to a collected traditional, English country, cottage, library or eclectic interior. See less