Balustrade (possibly depicting a bridge or wall in Venice or London)
Original fine art print (Etching/Drypoint) on paper, likely mounted on cardstock backing. • Ivanhoe Dunton (often associated with the Etching Revival period). Hand-signed in pencil lower right.
Style & Movement
Etching Revival; Tonalism with a focus on architectural draughtsmanship and atmospheric perspective.
Medium & Technique
Etching and drypoint on heavy wove or laid paper. The technique features heavy cross-hatching, plate tone for atmospheric effect, and burr consistent with drypoint needles.
Creation Period
Early 20th Century (circa 1910–1930)
Dimensions & Format
Estimated plate size 6 x 8 inches; overall sheet size 10 x 13 inches. Vertical/Portrait orientation.
Subject Description
A dramatic close-up, low-angle view of a stone balustrade or parapet. The perspective emphasizes depth and the texture of the weathered stone. The dark, dense ink application suggests a nighttime or overcast urban scene, characteristic of the 'darker' late Romantic printmaking tradition.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good. There is significant visible light staining and acid burn from the previous framing/matting. The paper has yellowed and darkened considerably (toning).
Estimated Market Value
$150 - $350 USD
Auction Estimate
$100 - $250 USD
Provenance History
Numbered '10/25' in the lower left, indicating a very small, limited edition. No specific previous owners visible, but the presence of mounting tape at top edges suggests it was formerly matted and framed.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the trend of early 20th-century printmakers capturing the mood of European architecture. While Dunton is a less commonly cited name than contemporaries like Whistler or McBey, the small edition size (25) indicates a high-quality, artisanal approach to printmaking.
Notable Features
Low edition number (10/25) makes this a rare image. The signature is clear and authentic to the artist's known hand. The use of heavy plate tone adds 'painterly' qualities to the mechanical print process.
Condition Issues
Visible foxing/spotting in the bottom right corner; severe acid mat burn around the perimeter of the image; general paper oxidation; historical tape residue at the top.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional deacidification and cleaning by a paper conservator to mitigate yellowing. Remounting using acid-free, archival materials and UV-protective glass is essential to prevent further deterioration.