Book Description

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1908 edition. Excerpt: ... iv detailed descriptions of the most important french engravings executed in the Xviiith century together with notes on their various states note For the purposes of convenience the engravings have been classified according to the names of the artists and designers of the originals from which they were taken. Where not specially described the states are as set forth on page 80. In cases where the artist and engraver are the same individual, no mention is made of an engraver's name. When, however, prints have been executed by any one else the name is given. The relative merits of the various engravings have, as far as possible, been indicated, every important print being noted, and in most cases described. Where not otherwise specified the engravings are in line. It must not be forgotten that in the eighteenth century spelling was more elastic than it is now, and that consequently many small variations are to be found in the spelling of the names alike of artists, engravers, and prints. In most cases, however, these differences are not so great as to lead to confusion; except in one or two instances, therefore, attention has not been directed to them in the present volume. A typical example is the name "Lavreince," which is found spelt in about a dozen different ways, the most common variation being "Lavereince." The auction prices given were in the majority of instances realised by impressions of extreme perfection or scarcity. 1