Vincent Lunardi Esq.

• Price: $125.00
  

  SKU: 31170

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• ARTIST:

• PUBLISHER: Published by J. Bell Strand.

• MEDIUM: Stipple engraving,

  DATE: 1784.

• EDITION SIZE: Oval size 4 3/4 x 4 " ( 12.2 x 10.2 cm).

• DESCRIPTION: A handcolored stipple engraving of Vincent Lunardi, drawn by Richard Cosway and engraved by Francesco Bartolozzi, captures the pioneering aviator gazing skyward, a pose symbolizing his daring ambition and the spirit of early aviation. Ballooning, which began in France in 1783, quickly spread across Europe, captivating imaginations. Lunardi brought this phenomenon to Britain in 1784, presenting his hydrogen balloon to the Prince of Wales and a captivated public. <br><br> Despite an impatient crowd forcing him to ascend prematurely—without his planned companion, George Biggin—Lunardi’s historic flight from London’s Artillery Ground to Standon Green End in Hertfordshire was a resounding success. Accompanied instead by a cat, a dog, and a caged bird, he erased British skepticism about ballooning and achieved instant fame. This portrait serves as a fitting tribute, capturing the visionary spirit of one of aviation’s earliest pioneers.

• ADDITIONAL INFO: This piece is in a 11 x 14 inch mat for handling.

• CONDITION: In fair condition. The print exhibits mat burn, with paper losses beyond the mat burn along the outer margin, though these do not affect the image. The paper is toned, but the handcoloring remains vibrant and well-preserved.

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• CATEGORIES: 18th-19th Century Subjects , Portraits , Cartographers, Scientists & Philosophers