Lines of Distinction: Engraving in the Decorative Arts

Lines of Distinction: Engraving in the Decorative Arts

8 products
8 products

Engraving is an intricate decorative art technique that involves carving designs onto a surface, such as silver or glass, to create intricate patterns and images. This technique has been used for centuries in various forms of art, including prints and other decorative arts.

During the 18th century, engraving became increasingly popular. Skilled engravers were highly sought after for their ability to create intricate designs that added sophistication to everyday objects. Silverware, in particular, was a popular medium for engraving, with intricate patterns and designs often adorning tea sets and other household items. Brass clock faces, wootz steel blades, vases, and tribal objects were all engraved with great artistry.

Copper wheel engraving on glass was also a popular technique during this time period. Dutch glass engravers, for instance, used specialised lathes to carve intricate designs onto the surface of slender drinking glasses, while the Venetians engraved figures of classical gods on mirror plates, creating stunning pieces of art that were both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

The art of engraving has played a significant role in the decorative arts for centuries and continues to be a highly valued technique today. Skilled engravers are still in demand, and their work can be found on a wide range of objects, from brass, steel, silverware to glass and fine art prints.

Bohemian Glass Red over Clear Engraved Vases | Pair
Nicholas Wells Antiques
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Large Bohemian Engraved Red Glass Table Lamp with brass triangular base and ruby faceted clear glass column.
Large Bohemian Engraved Red Glass Table Lamp with ornate cast brass base featuring vine and grape details.
Large Bohemian Engraved Red Glass Table Lamp
Collection EE20
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Pair of Venetian mid 18th Century wall mirrors with original engraved plates and giltwood frames, circa 1750 Venice.
Pair of Venetian mid 18th Century wall mirrors
Collection EE20
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A Queen Anne Silvered Mirror Sconce 90x57cm with ornate silvered frame and beveled engraved mirror plate circa 1710 England.
A Queen Anne Silvered Mirror Sconce 90x57cm with bevelled plate and ornate silvered bolection moulded frame.
A Queen Anne Silvered Mirror Sconce 90x57cm
Collection CK40
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Queen Anne Overmantel Mirror with original 18th century carved giltwood frame and beveled mercury mirror plates.
Queen Anne Overmantel Mirror with early 18th century beveled mercury glass and giltwood carved frame.
Queen Anne Overmantel Mirror
Nicholas Wells Antiques
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Queen Anne Border Glass Giltwood Pier Mirror with engraved scallop-edge mercury plates in slim giltwood frame.
Queen Anne Border Glass Giltwood Pier Mirror with original engraved mercury plates and giltwood frame, circa 1710.
Queen Anne Border Glass Giltwood Pier Mirror
Nicholas Wells Antiques
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George I Gesso Pier Mirror with gilt gesso frame, carved strapwork, floral details, and split beveled mirror plates.
George I Gesso Pier Mirror with gilt gesso frame, intricate strapwork, floral details, and split beveled mirror plates.
George I Gesso Pier Mirror
Nicholas Wells Antiques
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Venetian Mirror | 20th century Cut Glass square wall mirror with ornate cut glass border, circa 1900, 107x107 cm.
Venetian Mirror | 20th century Cut Glass
Nicholas Wells Antiques
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