[Milton's Dream]

Method Etching
Artist Charles West Cope
Published c. 1850
Dimensions Image 103 x 96 mm, Plate 121 x 114 mm, Sheet 170 x 125 mm
Notes Signed within the plate.

Early proof impression of Cope's etching relating to the painting of this subject that he exhibited at the Royal Academy. Prior to reworking and addition of printing date. This plate was later published as Plate 24 of The Etching Club's 'Etchings for the Art-Union of London by the Etching Club' (London: Art Union of London, 1857).

Regarded as Cope's greatest etched work this print was produced in the same year in which he introduced Samuel Palmer to the Etching Club. The atmospheric night-time scene shows the influence of the 'Ancients' upon Cope's output and similarities can be drawn with Palmer's etchings and with Edward Calvert's wood engraving, The Chamber Idyll of 1831.

Charles West Cope (1811-1890) was the leader of the Etching Club from its foundation and probably the best etcher among its members. He was conscientious and industrious and worked at improving his plates. Known to his contemporaries as the Poet-Laureate of the Nursery, his etching served as a contrast to the high-mindedly historical frescoes he painted to decorate the palace of Westminster. he was on the council of the Royal Society of Painter Etchers.

Condition: Trimmed just outside the plate.
Framing unmounted
Price £500.00
Stock ID 48550

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