Old English colour prints

By Malcolm C Salaman

A shaft of English sunlight falls across a Georgian parlour, illuminating a print whose colours, centuries old, still shimmer with life. In the quiet, intricate world of eighteenth-century printmaking, artists and artisans collaborated to capture the spirit of their age-translating society, fashion, and landscape into works that were both decorative and deeply expressive. This richly informed volume traces the evolution of English colour prints, from the earliest experiments in colour engraving to the technical mastery that defined British printmaking history. With a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for historical print techniques, the author explores how these antique art prints were not mere reproductions, but original creations that shaped the visual culture of their time. The narrative draws readers into the bustling studios and print shops of London, where innovation flourished and the boundaries between art and craft blurred. Each page offers insight into the personalities and processes behind old master prints, revealing the subtle interplay of artistry and technique that made these works so prized among collectors. For those fascinated by art appreciation and the evolution of decorative print collecting, this book offers a window into the cultural and aesthetic forces that elevated printmaking to a central place in British art history. This book was out of print for decades and is now republished by Alpha Editions. It has been restored for today's and future generations. This edition is not just a reprint - it's a collector's item and a cultural treasure. Whether approached as a resource for the print collector or as an invitation to rediscover the beauty of colour engraving, this work stands as a testament to the enduring allure of antique art prints and the artistry that continues to inspire admiration across generations.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 9374590697
• ISBN13: 9789374590690
• Release Date: June 2026
• Publisher: Alpha Edition
• Length: 68 Pages
• Weight: 0.23 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.0" x 0.2" x 6.0"