A collection of restoration watercolours depicting Arms of Baronets [graphic]

[S.l.] : [s.n.], circa 1670.

11 drawings : watercolor

paper

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FAST ACC 271026 (folio)

From dealer's description: "Ink and watercolour on paper. [Haewood 429, 430 (1662, 1665)]. Sheet size: approximately 25 cm x 18 cm. A collection of 11 watercolour paintings of the Achievements of Baronets created on the restoration of Charles II. They are all annotated in a 17th century hand with names and dates. The group consists of 9 paintings dated 1660, 1 dated 1664, and 1 dated 1665. These are very fine and rather beautiful examples of English Restoration heraldry: these impressive crests are all set against a canopy mantling of red and white fabric (a feature more indicative of the early 17th century). The individuation in the images is itself an interesting characteristic of 17th century painting, with features depicted in distinctly individual rather than symbolic form. For example, the animals and objects are realistically rendered in fine detail, the twisted fabric of the torse is a carefully hatched representation of fabric, and the Turk’s head (which is hugely reminiscent of Charles II) is of a distinctly sallow palour as if it has only recently been decapitated. These paintings of the arms of baronets are most likely from the collection of a 17th century herald. Heralds have always collected and collated information and examples of arms, either tricked or painted, for a kind of ‘database’. That said, the size and quality are remarkable. To such an extent that seems unnecessary for simple record keeping, suggesting perhaps a greater purpose for these items. This may also be indicated by the obvious care that has been taken in storing them, evidenced by the exceptional preservation of both colour and detail. Heraldic crests are the very embodiment of status and power as visual symbols and these are exquisite examples of that ostentatious visual culture of display. They are manifested in the distinctive style of the 17th century, with its curious ability to express the generality of symbols through close attention to the uniqueness of things." Ordered from: Dean Cooke, Manuscripts & Rare Books, D9267, 2018-12-14, Manuscripts from Robert Colley's collection, Ref: 7695 Purchase made possible by The Professor Emile V. Telle Acquisitions Fund.

271026