$68.00
The original painting by Joseph Mallord William Turner (ca. 1807) after which this engraving by C. W. Sharpe was made (ca. later 1800s) and printed by D. Appleton & Co., NY, entitled “A Country Blacksmith,” is said to have been titled by Turner “A Country Blacksmith Disputing upon the Price of Iron, and the Price Charged to the Butcher for Shoeing his Poney.” This tongue-in-check title reflects the Napoleonic Wars’ impact on life in Britain. Such trades had to increase prices after 1806, when the government introduced a pig iron tax to pay war debts. The original painting was exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1807 hanging next to one by celebrated newcomer, David Wilkie. It’s said that Turner wanted to prove he could paint scenes of everyday life just as brilliantly as Wilkie. Opinion was divided, but one observer said Wilkie’s painting was “flung into eclipse” by Turner’s and that Turner’s work “killed” others nearby. The engraving offered here measures 10.25″ x 14″ and is printed on heavy stock which, interestingly, has a gold core. See photos. The scene is finely detailed: men, horses, chickens, and scattered produce share a blacksmith shop cluttered with the usual implements found in such an establishment in the very early 1800s. Based on the back story, we can hear the exchange between the men. A sign on the wall reads “No Trust” (??). The colors are very soft and muted. The engraving is in very good antique condition (from visual observation; not a technical grade) with some foxing, discoloration around the perimeter, and tape remnants on the back. I bought this from the estate of a collector who had the unfortunate habit of writing notes on the prints. The pencil note on this one appears on the bottom right corner and it can probably be erased.
1 in stock
HISTORY (from online sources): Joseph Mallord William Turner RA (1775 – 1851), known in his time as William Turner, was an English Romantic painter, printmaker and watercolorist.
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A WORD ABOUT VINTAGE: Our inventory consists of vintage or antique items which are more than 20 years old, usually used or pre-owned, unless marked “new old stock.” As such, there may be signs of wear and age, which we will disclose to the best of our ability. Nevertheless, we encourage you to carefully read the description and view the photos, especially when purchasing a gift. All items ship with tracking and insurance, and although we do not accept returns, we will offer a refund in case of breakage or damage during transit, upon receipt of sufficient proof.
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I purchased two items from this shop. They arrived surprisingly quickly, and it was evident that extreme care was taken to ensure they arrived safely. I greatly appreciate the attention and extra care when packaging up the items. How sad it would be to purchase an antique that has survived multiple generations, only to be destroyed by USPS! Thank you so much for a wonderful shopping experience!
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danicatheracecardriver –
Wonderful experience, meticulous packaging!
I purchased two items from this shop. They arrived surprisingly quickly, and it was evident that extreme care was taken to ensure they arrived safely. I greatly appreciate the attention and extra care when packaging up the items. How sad it would be to purchase an antique that has survived multiple generations, only to be destroyed by USPS! Thank you so much for a wonderful shopping experience!