Beautiful and whimsical detailed steel engraving from the bas-relief by Bertel Thorvaldsen.
In Thorwaldsen's ' Basket of Loves ' we see a female who is evidently a wanderer, the pilgrim's staff indicates this; she is resting, and, perhaps in a moment of unguardedness, one of the nestlings, eager to try its powers of flight, like a young bird, has; spread its wings, and flies away; while its owner seems vainly striving to allure it's back again. Of those still in the nest or basket, one looks archly up to its brother who has taken flight; another lays its hand playfully on the nose of a noble dog, the wanderer's companion; two are caressing each other; and one, which appears the youngest, is fast asleep.
Printed on heavyweight ivory/cream stock. Reverse side is blank.
Title (printed below image): A Basket of Loves
Publication: The Art Journal
Publication Year: 1865
Publisher: London: Virtue & Co., Ltd.
Approximate Page Size (in inches): 9 x 12.75
Approximate Image Size (in inches): 5.5 x 6
Condition: There is a small, light line just over the back of the woman's head that appears to be within the printing. Otherwise excellent condition.
Library blind stamp* in margin area does not detract from the beauty of this print.
*blind stamp: A colorless impression that is embossed on paper.
