Eton on the Thames

Method Mezzotint
Artist Thomas Lupton after William Collins
Published Published c.1823 by W.B.Cooke, 9 Soho Square
Dimensions Image 216 x 150 mm, Plate 251 x 197 mm, Sheet 562 x 393 mm
Notes W.B. Cooke published a series of mezzotints by various printmakers under the title The Rivers of England between 1823-1826. The title of the series was changed to "River Scenery" in 1827, although this title appears on some prints published in 1824-1825 (also in 1826). Twenty one plates were published altogether between 1823-1827. J.M.W Turner, Thomas Girtin and William Collins were the draughstmen for this work. Their drawings were engraved by Charles Turner and Thomas Lupton, amongst others, whilst Barbara Hofland wrote accompanying descriptions. The series appears to have been planned by Cooke in the early 1820s as a sequel in mezzotint to Picturesque Views on the Southern Coast of England, a catalogue still in the course of publication at this point.

William Collins (1788 - 1847) was a painter, etcher, picture dealer and author of a memoir on George Morland. He was the father of Wilkie Collins and Charles Allston Collins. In 1820, Collins was elected a Royal Academician. Something of a nomad, Collins travelled throughout England and Scotland, as well as Italy, France, Belgium and the Netherlands. His art enjoyed great popularity throughout Europe.

Thomas Lupton (1791-1873) was an English mezzotinter who produced many works by Turner as well as a host of other notable British painters of the nineteenth-century. A talented engraver, Lupton also played a significant role in the technical advancement of the mezzotint. In the hope of finding a more durable replacement for copper plate, Lupton conducted lengthy experiments on Chinese tutenag, nickel, and steel. The latter proved the most perspicacious. So much so that after 1,500 impressions, a single soft steel plate could still produce remarkable prints. Lupton's endeavour was recognised by the Royal Society of Arts and he was awarded the Isis medal in 1822.

Condition: Light foxing to sheet, some of which affecting the plate mark. Laid on India paper and containing full margins.
Framing unmounted
Price £150.00
Stock ID 28481

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