TRANSFIGURATION

Original 1791 14 inch x 18 1/4 inch Etching and Engraving titled THE TRANSFIGURATION

The transfiguration of Christ, with Moses and Elias standing on clouds to left, the apostles below, two kneeling at either side and one reclining to right with cloak raised over head.

Print by Jean Marie Delattre (1743 – 1843). French Engraver born in Abbeville and studied in Paris under Le Bas. Early career as portrait specialist, working for Esnauts & Rapilly. Came to England in 1770 to work for Ryland, where he married in 1773. He later worked for Francesco Bartolozzi. Partner with Victor Marie Picot in a print-selling business in St Martin’s Lane, London, in the 1770s. Protagonist in a famous lawsuit.

After the painting by Robert Smirke (1752 – 1845). Robert Smirke RA was an English painter and illustrator, specialising in small paintings showing subjects taken from literature. He was a member of the Royal Academy.

Published by Thomas Macklin (1752/3 – 1800), Poets Gallery, Fleet Street

Inscription: Lettered below the image: “Smirk Pinxt.”, “Delatre Sculpt.” and publication line: “London, Published Decr. 16, 1791, by Thos. Macklin, Fleet Street”

The etching is in good condition with some foxing and general age-related toning and minor defects from handling. The left border has been trimmed slightly.