Francis Barlow (English, 1626 - 1704)

Etchings for Aesop's Fables

An accomplished painter, etcher, and book illustrator, Francis Barlow was the leading bird and animal artist in 17th century England. Because of his talent for depicting animals, it is only fitting that Barlow made a contribution to the well established European tradition of Aesopic illustration with his own designs for Aesop Fables. Barlow's edition of Aesop Fables, published in 1666, is one of his most well known works. The interpretive, almost naive illustrations of creatures are skillfully rendered in physical detail and the sense of active motion. Each print includes the fable and moral in English and Latin. French text verso.

• Related Links: L.Beck/H.Burgkmair, Jacques Callot, Stefano Della Bella, Wenceslas Hollar, Manuscripts and Miniatures, 15th-16th Century European, 17th Century European

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    The Fowler and Partridge
    For Aesop’s Fables. Etching, 1666. Original English text by Thomas Philipott (d.1682). Text for 1687 edition updated by female novelist Aphra Behn (1640-1689).
    5 x 6-1/2 inches.
    [14323]
    $100
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    The Saytre and Clown
    For Aesop’s Fables. Etching, 1666. Original English text by Thomas Philipott (d.1682). Text for 1687 edition updated by female novelist Aphra Behn (1640-1689).
    5 x 6-1/2 inches.
    [14307]
    $100