WITCH OF ENDOR

Original 1797 14 3/8 inch x 18 1/4 inch Etching and Engraving titled THE WITCH OF ENDOR

The Witch, standing at the left, presents the ghost of Samuel, emerging from a mist in the centre, to Saul, who bows before the apparition, almost lying on the floor, his face covered by his hair; two onlookers, one in armour, turn to flee in the doorway at right.

Print by Robert Shipster (1775 – 1823). Draughtsman and engraver.

After the painting by Benjamin West (1738 – 1820). A British-American artist who painted famous historical scenes such as The Death of Nelson, The Death of General Wolfe, the Treaty of Paris, and Benjamin Franklin Drawing Electricity from the Sky.

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

Inscription: Lettered with title and chapter reference, with production detail: “B. West R.A. pinxt.”, “R. Shipster sculpt. late pupil to F. Bartolozzi R.A.” and publication line: “London, Published July 4th. 1797, by Thomas Macklin, Poets Gallery, Fleet Street”

The etching is in very good condition with some foxing and general age-related toning and minor defects from handling.