EARLY 18TH CENTURY OLD MASTER BLUE MEZZOTINT OF A HARE, LIZARD, BIRD AND BUTTERFLY

Anonymous
Possibly first quarter of the 18th century; probably London, England
Blue mezzotint print on paper

Approximate size: 39.5 x 27.5 cm

A blue mezzotint of a nature scene at the foot of a tree. The scene depicts a hare eating cabbage with a butterfly, lizard and bird nearby.  

The origin of this print is yet to be identified.  The lower left corner reads "No. 3 Med. fol." and assumes it must form a printed series, perhaps for a larger volume. The verso reads "Il Mercurio, quarta Pianeta, e'l suo influsso," and could suggest the volume may have something to do with the influence of the planets upon the natural world as derived from Copernican ideas.  

This anonymous print was likely created in London where the art of the mezzotint experienced its zenith through the sponsorship of painters like Sir Peter Lely and Godfrey Kneller who employed mezzotinters to reproduce their paintings and designs for a wider audience. 

The great use of shading and stylstic treatment of the scene could suggest an origin in the first part of the 18th century and possibly by the hand of one of the many Dutch artists who translocated to London to practice the art. 

Condition: trimmed to or within the plate mark. The lower margin has a closed tear.  Unframed.