Blake, William

Twenty-two post-proofs on china paper (7 5/8 x 6 1/4 in.; 193 x 158 mm), mounted on unmarked wove paper (19 7/8 x 13 1/2 in.; 505 x 343 mm).  Engraved title leaf and twenty-one plates by Blake; light foxing on a few plates. Blue morocco gilt clamshell case; some wear and rubbing. 

acquisition: Seven Gables

Bentley, Blake Books, 421

Condition as described in catalogue entry.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Blake's renowned engravings for the Book of Job. These illustrations were begun by Blake in 1821 at the suggestion of his friend John Linnell, who hoped to help the artist secure a degree of self-sufficiency. According to Bentley, 215 proof sets were issued in 1826, with title plate dated 1825.  The present set appears to be from the 1874 re-issue.  Linnell's son wrote to Bernard Quaritch in 1892, explaining how the plates came to be issued again after the 1826 sets were offered: "Mr. Linnell then put the plates away, & they were never again used after this time until the year 1874. At that time my father wishing to have some prints ["i.e. not proofs" Bentley] of the Job to offer for sale, (the original 100 copies having long since been exhausted) he had 100 copies printed from the plates upon India paper … The above named impressions, taken at the two dates specified , are all that have been taken from the plates, of the Job. My father considered the plates at the last were as good as they ever were, for the work being cut with the graver, and not etched, it is durable—and is not worn by the printing as is the case with an etching."