1776 Ryland Engraving After Angelica Kauffman Venus Helen Paris Hand Colored

Original 18th century hand-colored stipple engraving “Venus presenting Helen to Paris, after his retreat from combat with Menelaus”, painted by Angelica Kauffman and engraved by William Wynne Ryland, the royal engraver to King George III. Published January 1, 1776, London (No.159 Strand). Beautiful Neoclassical composition in circular format, printed on laid paper with visible plate mark. A delicate hand-colored original from the Georgian era, not a reproduction. Condition: heavy age wear, folds, edge tears and losses; toning consistent with age. Unframed, sold as found. Approx. size: 13.5” x 12” Material: ink and watercolor on laid paper