SOCIETY OF PAINTERS IN WATER COLOURS
[Gallery of the Society of Painters in Water Colours. Advertisement]
Under the patronage of His Majesty. This day is published, the first part of the Gallery of the Society of Painters in Water Colours. ... With illustrative letter-press. ...
[London]: [1832?].
[2] p. ; 26.4 cm. (4°)

Single quarter sheet with drop-head title. An undated advertisement issued by the publishers of the work, Charles Tilt of Fleet Street; Colnaghi and Co., Pall Mall East; and J. and A. Arch, Cornhill. To be 'continued at intervals not exceeding two months, and completed in about Twelve Numbers' each containing three plates, this work was 'undertaken with the sanction of the Society' and 'intended to comprise a selection of the most admired works, which have appeared in the past, as well as those which may be produced in future exhibitions.' A great point is made in this advertisement of the fact that all the plates were to be engraved on copper and not steel: 'In engraving the plates for this Work on COPPER, the Proprietors give the best pledge of their anxiety to produce a series of engravings of the highest class. The adoption of steel has almost superseded the use of this metal, and although steel holds out a tempting advantage in the greater number of impressions to be obtained from it, yet those acquainted with the subject are well aware, that an effect greatly superior can be produced on copper.' The prints were to be available in four different issues: 'Prints, Imperial 4to.' at 10s. 6d.; 'Proofs, Columbier 4to.' at 18s. 0d.; 'India Proofs, Columbier 4to.' at a guinea; and fifty sets only of proofs before letters on india paper at £1 11s. 6d. (N.b. These prices were for each part). The first part contained engravings after works by Prout, Hunt, and Stephanoff. The verso of the present advertisement contains a list of thirteen further subjects 'in the engraver's hands'. The prints were issued in 1832--33.

Binding Loose sheet.

Reference Number 2310