Wit. Calligraphy by Thomas Tomkins. From The Beauties of Writing. Published in 1808. Size: 28 x 43.7 cms

Wit.

An original copperplate engraving dated 1777.

A poem by an unknown author.

“True Wit is like the brilliant stone, Dug from the Indian mine, That boasts two various powers in one, To cut as well to shine. Genius like that if polished right - With the same gifts abounds: Appears at once both keen & bright, And sparkles while it wounds.

Calligraphy by Thomas Tomkins (1743-1816).

Engraved by Joseph Ellis.

Thomas Tomkins was a calligrapher. A friend of Samuel Johnson and Joshua Reynolds he used to demonstrate drawing a perfect circle with a quill pen. For many years he ran a school of calligraphy in Foster Lane, London. His works include ornamental titles to books including Thomas Macklin’s Bible and James Thompson’s The Seasons. Also a transcript of Horatio Nelson’s letter announcing his victory at the Battle of The Nile that was engraved and published.

Size: 28 x 43.7 cms or 11 x 17 1/4 inches.

This piece is from The Beauties of Writing, exemplified in a variety of plain and ornamental penmanship. Designed ‘to excite Emulation in this valuable Art’. Originally published in 1777, it was published again in 1808-9. It is from this later publication that this engraving is taken.

A rare engraving. I can find none for sale at this time.

Condition: Very Good. The surface is lightly marked. There are two small dark spots on the surface to the left of the piece and one small dot on the right. There is light surface wear but the engraving is generally, considering its age, clean and fresh.