Artist: William Henry Bartlett (1809–1854)
Engraver: Henry Adlard (active 1824–1869)
Technique: Original Antique Steel Engraving
Dimensions: Plate: 12.6x19.1 cm | Page: 19.9x27.0 cm
Status: Authentic print published between eighteen thirty six and eighteen thirty eight, explicit text attributions on the lower border
Publisher: Fisher, Son & Co., London & Paris
About the Artwork:
This authentic antique steel engraving, published circa 1836, captures the lush natural landscape titled Beit El Ma, Site of Daphne, the Ancient Riblah (Near Antioch). Located near modern-day Antakya, Turkey, the site of Daphne was historically celebrated in classical antiquity for its sacred groves, sanctuary of Apollo, and cascading freshwater springs. Masterfully drawn from nature by the prominent British illustrator William Henry Bartlett, the composition centers on a wide, dramatic waterfall pouring over rocky ledges into a rushing river basin below, densely framed by thick native shrubbery and overhanging trees. In the left foreground, regional figures in traditional Ottoman-era Syrian attire—including Syrian women—are depicted resting and standing near the riverbank with a small goat. The background rises into the steep, rugged, and dramatic mountain peaks of Mount Casius, adding a majestic wilderness atmosphere. Engraved onto steel with superb fine-line precision and high tonal contrast by Henry Adlard, this print beautifully reflects the romantic nineteenth-century interest in classical and biblical topography. This plate originates from the publication Syria, The Holy Land, Asia Minor, &c. Illustrated.
About the Artists:
William Henry Bartlett (1809–1854): One of the most celebrated and prolific British topographical illustrators of the nineteenth century, famed for his highly accurate on-the-spot travel sketches of the Middle East, Europe, and North America.
Henry Adlard (Active 1824–1869): A highly accomplished London line and landscape engraver who worked extensively with premier publishers to execute fine topographical architectural book illustrations.