Four 17th Century German Engravings of Grotesques

A rare set of four plates from a series of six designs for strapwork and grotesque ornament, “Neu Inventirtes Laub Bandl und Groteschgen-Werk”, published in Nuremberg between 1680 and 1726 by Johann Christoph Weigel (1654–1725). Why we like them Finely traced and inspired by the archeological discoveries in Rome (excavations in the 16th and 17th centuries were made by digging tunnels, or 'grottoes', hence the style of decoration they found was called 'grotesque'), these engravings reflect the fascination with the Antique, the unusual and the exotic. Dimensions Plates measure 18cm by 23cm (~7in by ~9in), framed as shown 32cm by 38cm (12.5 in by 15 in). May be sold unframed, please contact us. Condition Very good antique condition, only minor imperfections to the visible parts of the plates – see pictures.