Stanley Anderson

Original Stanley Anderson line engraving.

Excellent signed proof impression with beautiful clarity of line, from the only edition of 50 signed proofs.

At the end of the 1920’s Stanley Anderson moved away from the use of drypoint as his primary printmaking technique, favouring instead the linear clarity of pure line engraving. During the following two decades he used this technique to produce an outstanding body of remarkable images depicting the traditional crafts and activities of rural England. The Lace-Maker is at the heart of this body of work; dating from 1940, this meticulous study of a traditional lace-maker shows Stanley Anderson’s exacting printmaking technique at its very finest.

Indeed, Stanley Anderson was one of the earliest protagionists in the modern revival of line engraving in England. His exceptionally precise technique was the result of seven years of training as a working engraver of decorative silverware. Once established amongst the leading printmakers of his generation, Anderson applied his outstanding knowledge of line engraving technique to his creative work as a graphic artist. It is through his line engravings, such as The Lace-Maker, that Stanley Anderson has now achieved lasting fame and, in consequence, they have become his most sought-after works.

The engraved text beneath the image reads “Nineteen little round holes gaping for a wire. Every pin that I stick gets me one the nigher”. Towards the base of the sheet Stanley Anderson has written the phrase “The fruitful ground, the quiet mind”.

On cream wove paper watermarked P M Fabriano (Italy), with full margins. Mild time tone within mat window area, otherwise very fine original condition. Image surface excellent.