SHAKESPREARE HENRY VI, CAROLINE WATSON (1760-1814) AFTER SIR JOSHUA REYNOLDS (1723-1792) FROM BOYDELL SHAKESPEARE GALLERY ENGRAVING, 1792, 24IN x 28.5IN (61cm x 72cm)

Inventory #: 26-173 - $550.00

An original, late 18th-century English stipple engraving depicting a dramatic scene from William Shakespeare’s historical play The Second Part of King Henry VI, Act III, Scene III. The composition illustrates the death of Humphrey, Duke of Gloucester, shown lying lifeless in bed while King Henry VI and attendants react in shock and grief. Beneath the image appear lines from the play referencing the moment: “See, how the pangs of death do make him grin…”. The engraving was executed by Caroline Watson (1760–1814) after the original painting by Sir Joshua Reynolds (1723–1792). Watson was one of the leading stipple engravers of the Georgian era and was appointed “Engraver to Her Majesty” by Queen Charlotte. The plate was printed by Reynolds and published May 1, 1792 by John Boydell and Josiah Boydell for the celebrated Boydell Shakespeare Gallery in London. This example displays the refined tonal effects characteristic of Watson’s stipple engraving technique, with delicate dot work creating smooth transitions in the figures’ faces, fabrics, and dramatic lighting. This piece was examined outside of the frame and it is in good antique condition, consistent with age. There is visible toning, minor foxing, and signs of previous mounting on the verso. This engraving is part of George Zorin collection, a respected New York dealer, specializing in Old Master and 19th-century prints. Zorin’s collection, built over several decades, are widely recognized in the American print trade, and being part of this collection provides reassuring provenance for works on paper from this period. This engraving came in a large portfolio marked “Zorin 29. 18^th Century Prints Dramatic scenes from Shakespeare circa 1702”, see pictures. This large portfolio does not come with this piece. With frame, this piece measures 24 inches x 28.5 inches. This piece is matted and framed under acrylic in a wooden frame. FLAT RATE SHIPPING OF $75.00 WITH INSURANCE FOR THIS PIECE WITHIN THE CONTINENTAL UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. Flat rate shipping is billed separately after the invoice has been paid.

This engraving was published as part of the celebrated Boydell Shakespeare Gallery project, one of the most ambitious artistic publishing ventures of the late 18th century. Conceived by John Boydell, it commissioned prominent British artists—including Reynolds, Fuseli, Romney, and West—to paint scenes from Shakespeare’s plays, which were then reproduced as large folio engravings for collectors. These prints helped elevate British historical painting and remain among the most recognizable Shakespeare-themed engravings produced during the Georgian period.