Thomas Riley, “Roxana”, 1882

Thomas Riley (1856–1892)

“Roxana,” 1822, commissioned by Philip Gilbert Hamerton (1834–1894) and published in London in 1882 by Seeley & Co (also known as L & G Seeley, fl. 1839–1900s) in the art periodical, “The Portfolio.”

Based on the commentary on page 25 of “The Portfolio” (1882), I understand that at the time Riley created this etching, he was working with the renowned English painter Sir Edward John Poynter (1836–1919), assisting him in painting the figures for the decoration of the Dome of St Paul’s. The subject of this etched portrait is described as “an Indian girl.” Interestingly, the commentary highlights the “leafy background,” suggesting that it “appears to have been suggested by decorative painting,” and noting that such a background “has rarely been attempted in etching” (ibid.).

Etching with plate tone printed in umber ink on cream laid paper (watermark “MBM. PORTFOLIO”) with full margins as published.

Size: (sheet) 34.5 x 23.9 cm; (plate) 26.5 x 23.9 cm; (image borderline)  24.4 x 18 cm.

Inscribed in plate: (lower left corner) “Tho. Riley”.

Condition: a richly inked and well-printed impression. The sheet is in a near pristine condition, free of tears, holes, folds, abrasions, or significant stains.

Price & Shipping: AU$288 in total (approximately US$188.44 / €162.84 / £143.29), including worldwide express shipping. Please note that import duties are the buyer's responsibility.

If you are interested in purchasing this exquisite portrait, please contact me (oz_jim@printsandprinciples.com) and I will send you a PayPal invoice to make the payment easy.