15" W x 20.75" H
A hanging wire has been attached post photo.
This original 1827 stipple engraving of Marquess Wellesley, created by esteemed artist Henry Hoppner Meyer RBA after a portrait by Alexander Robertson, is a striking piece of Regency-era portraiture. Rendered using the stipple technique, the engraving is composed of delicate dots that create soft tonal gradations and lifelike detail. The subject, Richard Colley Wellesley, was a major British statesman and Governor-General of India, known for expanding British rule during the early 19th century and for being the elder brother of the Duke of Wellington. The portrait captures him in richly detailed ceremonial attire, highlighting his stature and political influence.
Henry Meyer, one of the most respected British engravers of the era, trained under Bartolozzi and was a founding member and president of the Society of British Artists. His works include engraved portraits of figures such as Lord Byron, Admiral Nelson, and Lady Hamilton. This engraving is preserved in its period frame and remains an excellent example of early 19th-century craftsmanship, historical significance, and artistic skill. A must-have for collectors of antique prints, British history, or those curating a refined and scholarly interior.
Condition:
Very good antique condition. The engraving shows light signs of age-appropriate wear, including some minor surface toning and subtle waviness to the paper. The original period frame is well preserved, with expected wear to the outer edges and slight patina to the glazing and mount. No rips, stains, or foxing visible.
Artist Biography:
Henry Hoppner Meyer RBA (1780-1847) was a renowned English portrait painter and skilled stipple and mezzotint engraver. He began his artistic training at Christ's Hospital, London in 1791 under the tutelage of Benjamin Green and later refined his engraving techniques at the Royal Academy Schools with Francesco Bartolozzi. Although his early published engravings were attributed to J. H. Meyer, he eventually dropped the J and was known professionally as Henry Meyer or H. Meyer. Throughout his career, he produced numerous notable engravings, including portraits of Lady Hamilton, Admiral Nelson, Sir John Nicholl, Lord Hawkesbury, Lord Byron, and Giuseppe Ambrogetti. He was also a founding member and president of the Society of British Artists, showcasing his works with the association from 1824 to 1830. His impressive painting of Charles Lamb was even displayed at the India Office for many years.
