A pair of framed, hand-coloured stipple engravings after the celebrated series Cries of London by Francis Wheatley RA (1747–1801). The print on the left is titled Sweet China Oranges, sweet China / Oranges sucres, Oranges fines, and bears the printed inscriptions Painted by F. Wheatley R.A. and Engraved by L. Schiavonetti. It includes a publication line reading London Published as the Act directs July 1st 1794 by Colnaghi & Co. No. 132 Pall Mall. The companion print on the right depicts another scene from the same series, showing figures gathered around a street vendor. Both works are executed in the stipple engraving technique, which provides soft tonal gradations, and feature delicate hand-colouring. These impressions appear to be later strikes or decorative reproductions of the original 18th-century plates. They are presented in matching modern dark wood frames with cream-coloured window mounts.
Condition report:
Both prints exhibit generalized even toning to the paper consistent with age. No significant foxing, tears, or water damage are visible to the areas of the sheet exposed by the mounts. The frames and mounts appear to be in good condition. The items have not been examined outside of their frames.
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