Aquatint engraving by Samuel Ireland, 1789
€90.00
This authentic antique print, measuring 15.5 cm × 10.5 cm , created by Samuel Ireland as a fine example of Aquatint engraving work from the 18th Century (1700s).
It is preserved in Very Good condition and displays remarkable period craftsmanship.
1 in stock
The Entrance to Leiden is a charming tinted aquatint engraving by Samuel Ireland, published in 1790. It comes from his work Picturesque Tour through Holland, Brabant and part of France, inspired by his travels in 1789. The print shows a serene view of the entrance to the Dutch city of Leiden, with water, mills, and soft light capturing the peaceful beauty of Holland.
This entrance to Leiden print measures 10.5 x 15.5 cm and remains in very good condition. Ireland’s skillful use of tint adds warmth and depth to the composition, highlighting both natural and architectural details. Collectors of antique prints value this piece for its historical charm, fine craftsmanship, and graceful depiction of 18th-century Dutch life. VAT: Margingoods, no VAT.
Samuel Ireland (1744–1800) was an English author, engraver, and collector best known for his works on art and antiquities. He published books that included detailed engravings and historical accounts, focusing on English landscapes and architecture. Ireland played a key role in documenting cultural heritage in the late 18th century, and collectors value his works for both their artistic and historical significance. He is also noted for his controversial involvement in the Shakespeare forgery scandal.
During the 18th century, mapmaking became more scientific and precise. Improved instruments like the telescope and chronometer helped cartographers increase accuracy, shifting maps from decorative art to factual documents. Copperplate engraving stayed as the main printing method, producing fine lines, while hand-coloring added visual impact. French cartographers, such as the Cassini family, led national surveys with geodetic measurements and triangulation, while Dutch mapmakers like Joan Blaeu enhanced printing and atlas quality, ushering in a golden age of atlases.
Maps began including more information and notes to help users, and ornate decorations mostly gave way to scientific clarity, except for cartouches and borders. National and colonial ambitions guided map production to aid navigation and territorial claims. By the late 18th century, large-scale surveys set modern cartography standards. Today, 18th-century maps mix scientific knowledge with artistry, are prized by collectors, and have influenced later cartographic methods. They offer insights into Enlightenment exploration and geography.
| Dimensions | 15.5 × 10.5 cm |
|---|---|
| Artist | |
| Condition | |
| Era | |
| Frame | No Frame |
| Orientation | |
| Technique | Aquatint engraving |
| Publish Date | 1789 |
Our antique prints are carefully packaged to ensure safe arrival.
Smaller prints are shipped in acid-free, flat protective packaging, while larger works are securely rolled and sent in a sturdy tube to preserve their condition.
Netherlands: €7.50 —
European Union: €15
Outside the EU: On request (contact us for an exact quote)
We offer custom framing for all prints, from classic antique frames to contemporary minimalist styles.
Choose any print from the collection
We discuss frame styles, materials & pricing
The print will be professionally framed and shipped via courier for maximum safety
If you would like your print framed, please contact us, we are happy to advise on styles and options.
Our highest classification. These prints are clean, bright, and exceptionally well-preserved, featuring a strong and crisp image. No notable imperfections.
Prints in this condition show a clean, sharp image. Paper quality or margin size may vary slightly. Minor age-related characteristics, such as small wormholes, light toning, or tiny separations may be present depending on the print date.
No major imperfections. Any minor flaws or historical repairs are fully noted in the product description. Overall a well-preserved and collectible piece.
These prints show noticeable imperfections such as foxing, weaker image strength, or longer separations, but remain collectible. All visible characteristics are clearly described.
