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Collection of 8 Antique Biblical Engravings — Old & New Testament — Late 18th / Early 19th Century
An atmospheric collection of eight original antique biblical engravings, featuring dramatic Old and New Testament scenes, intricate period linework, and beautiful early religious imagery.
These large-format engravings appear to date from the late 18th to early 19th century and were likely produced for an illustrated Bible or religious publication.
Several bear identifiable period engraver and artist credits, including Brocas, Maguire, W. Sedgwick, Artaud, and Verdier.
The eight subjects are:
1. Christ Rebuking Satan — Matthew 4:10, engraved by Brocas. A particularly striking image of Christ confronting a winged Satan beneath gathering clouds, with angels overhead.
2. Adam and Eve in a State of Innocence — Genesis 2:25, depicting the first couple in the Garden of Eden.
3. The Holy Family — Matthew Chapter 1, featuring an elaborate oval composition with Mary, the infant Jesus, and accompanying figures.
4. The Flight into Egypt — Matthew 2:14, depicting Mary and Jesus traveling on a donkey, accompanied by Joseph.
5. The Gates of Gaza Taken Away by Samson — Judges 16:3, after Verdier, engraved by Maguire.
6. Ruth Gleaning — Ruth 2:3–4, a detailed pastoral biblical scene.
7. Moses Meeting His Wife & Sons — Exodus 18:5–7, after William Artaud, engraved by W. Sedgwick.
8. The Lord of the Vineyard — Matthew 20:8, engraved by Maguire.
The engravings feature finely executed crosshatching, dramatic compositions, engraved biblical references, and period typography.
Age and attribution: Research suggests a late 18th- to early 19th-century origin, approximately 1790–1830. Comparable illustrations appeared in important British, Irish, and American illustrated Bibles of the period. The precise original publication and printing dates have not been conclusively established.
Condition: These are genuinely old, unrestored paper sheets with substantial age-related wear. Expect extensive toning, foxing, discoloration, staining, creases, tears, chipped and brittle edges, and areas of paper loss. Some margins are considerably distressed, although the central engraved compositions remain largely intact.
Please review all photographs carefully for individual condition.
All eight engravings are offered together, unframed and as found. They have not been trimmed or restored.
A wonderful collection for enthusiasts of antique religious art, biblical history, early engraving, Gothic imagery, ecclesiastical decor, and historical works on paper.
