Plate from the Liber Veritatis (Book of Truth)
Print on paper • Richard Earlom (printmaker) after Claude Lorrain (original artist)
Style & Movement
Neoclassical era reproduction of 17th-century Baroque/Classical Landscape
Medium & Technique
Etching with mezzotint and wash effect, printed in sepia-toned ink
Creation Period
Late 18th century (circa 1774-1777)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 21 x 26 cm (plate mark); Landscape format
Subject Description
An idealized pastoral landscape featuring prominent trees in the foreground, a classical building/tower in the mid-ground, and a distant horizon. This series was a record of Claude Lorrain's paintings to prevent forgery.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; visible age toning and slight foxing on the margins
Estimated Market Value
$200 - $500 USD
Auction Estimate
$150 - $400 USD
Provenance History
Likely published by John Boydell in London as part of a collected volume; later disseminated through individual estate sales and galleries.
Art Historical Significance
Highly significant as one of the first major attempts to catalog an artist's entire oeuvre through printmaking; it revolutionized the dissemination of Claude Lorrain's landscape style throughout Europe.
Notable Features
Features the distinctive 'R. Earlom Fecit' (right) and 'Claude le Lorrain delin.' (left) inscriptions in the lower margin.
Condition Issues
Minor discoloration (browning) of the paper consistent with age; possible acidity from old matting visible at the edges.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional de-acidification if acidity is found; remounting with archival acid-free materials and UV-protective glass.