I am always amazed at what people give away. Do we lack taste or appreciation of art? Maybe because it is old we think it unworthy of our modern world? I think in some respect we do lack an appreciation for old things unless we are told it is worth while by someone else.  Granted the eyes with which I look at art have not changed but they have been refined – tutored even – in the appreciation of the talent, of the creativity, of the genius even of some artists.

Lady Hamilton as ‘Serena’ stipple engraving
by Francis Holl

Firstly, a superb  stipple engraving by #FrancisHoll (1815-1884) of Lady Hamilton as ‘Serena’ reading a newspaper of Lord Horatio Nelsons naval accomplishments. From an earlier chapter you might remember that Lady Hamilton was considered to be one of the great beauties of her time.

Mosque near the Citadel, Cairo @ 1926
by William Ashton

#WilliamAshton (1881-1963) was not an etcher for very long in his artistic life.  He made around 25 etchings in total. This one from 1926, displays a street in Cairo.  I believe the tower in the back ground stands over the Bab el Zuela.  A very fine etching and I wonder what great heights he might have reached in the field if he had continued.

Girl’s Portrait
unknown artist
aquatint/etching

And now to what I think is exceptional talent. An exquisite aquatint by an unknown artist. The subtleness of the portrayal just adds to the beauty of the girl. making this just lovely to behold.