Antique Print-ROMAN HELMETS-HEAD DRESS-Pergolesi-1784

Description

This plate shows 28 different antique helmets. Among these several plumed Roman helmets.

Made by an anonymous engraver after Michael Angelo Pergolesi.

Medium: engraving / etching with hand colouring on hand laid (verge) paper.

Sheet size: 33 x 51.5 cm (12.99 x 20.28 inch). Image size: 26.5 x 44 cm. (10.43 x 17.32 inch).

Condition: good, given age. A few tears in the margins, not affecting image and some repaired. Margins slightly browned and some spots. Sharp crease bottom right corner outside image area. General age-related toning and/or occasional minor defects from handling. Please study scan carefully.

ROMAN HELMETS-HEAD DRESS | DP-A2-002-38

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

This print was published in England, dated 1784.

Biography artist: Michael Angelo Pergolesi was an Italian decorative artist from the 18th century who worked mainly in England. Biographical details are almost entirely lacking, but like Cipriani he was brought, or attracted, to England by Robert Adam after his famous continental tour. He worked so extensively for the Adams’, and his designs are so closely typical of much upon which their reputation rests, that it is impossible to doubt his influence upon their style. His range, like theirs, was catholic. He designed furniture, mantelpieces, ceilings, chandeliers, doors and mural ornament with equal felicity, and as an artist in plaster work in low relief he was unapproached in his da.