What subjects do these prints show?

These works depict rural scenes, including shepherds, cowmen, feeding pigs and finding bird nests. They reflect a romanticised view of eighteenth and nineteenth-century country life. Such imagery appeared on framed wall art, reverse glass paintings and transfer-printed earthenware pottery alike.

How do I date a glass print?

Dating relies on the style of the mounting, the type of glass used and the characteristics of the pigments. Many reverse glass examples date from the Georgian and Regency periods. Examining the backing boards and framing materials often provides further clues to the age of the piece.

Are these works hand-coloured?

Many of the engravings and mezzotints feature hand-colouring applied over the printed ink lines. This adds depth and tint to the rustic clothing and natural landscape backgrounds. Printers and publishers employed skilled colourists to finish the impressions before framing.

How should I hang these framed prints?

Display these works away from direct sunlight to protect the paper, pigments and hand-colouring from fading. Ensure the wall fixings match the weight of the wood and gilt frames. Glass prints require particular care regarding stable humidity and secure hanging due to their fragile medium.