A charming collection of four early (17th century) copperplate portrait engravings, beautifully preserved within a later Victorian Eastlake ebonized frame with delicate lightwood floral inlay. Each finely executed intaglio portrait bears the inscription "Israel excud.", the Latin publisher's imprint indicating the print was issued by the Paris publishing house associated with the Israel family of print dealers rather than identifying the engraver himself. The portraits depict idealized Renaissance and Mannerist figures—a feathered lady in profile, an armored elder, a youthful soldier, and a contemplative child—subjects that were widely admired by artists and collectors throughout the seventeenth century as studies of expression, costume, and classical beauty. These are personal favorites of mine, hanging in my own home for decades. Prints are, as noted, c. 1600s
The engravings are presented in an elegant nineteenth-century Eastlake frame dating to approximately 1875-1890, its ebonized surface enriched with delicate contrasting floral inlay that complements the restrained sophistication of the prints. Together they form a handsome decorative ensemble combining two collecting periods: early European old master printmaking and the refined aesthetic of the late Victorian interior. Whether displayed in a library, study, or traditional home, the group possesses the quiet character and scholarly appeal that only genuine early engravings can provide. Value is primarily the c. 1600s intaglio prints.
Condition: The engravings show expected age toning, scattered foxing, and light discoloration consistent with early laid paper. They appear to be old impressions with later nineteenth-century matting and framing. The Eastlake frame exhibits minor wear and small losses to the ebonized finish and inlay commensurate with age, while remaining structurally sound and an attractive presentation overall.
