Artist: William Henry Bartlett (1809–1854)
Engraver: James Tingle (active 1824–1850)
Technique: Original Antique Steel Engraving
Dimensions: Plate: 12.9x19.2 cm | Page: 20.0x27.0 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 a dramatic topographical view of the Pass of Souk Barrada (Wady Barada) near Zabadani, Syria. The scene centers on the historic stone single-arch bridge known as Djissr es-Souk, spanning the rushing waters of the Barada River (the ancient Pharpar). Masterfully drawn from nature by renowned British topographical artist William Henry Bartlett, the composition details a rugged mountain pass hemmed in by steep, monumental perpendicular rocky cliffs. A long caravan of regional travelers on horseback, on foot, and with pack animals animates the narrow path crossing the stone bridge. Engraved with deep tonal contrast by James Tingle, the print showcases the wild, picturesque grandeur of the Syrian landscape. This plate originates from the noted nineteenth-century series Syria, The Holy Land, Asia Minor, &c. Illustrated.
About the Artists:
William Henry Bartlett (1809–1854): One of the most prolific and celebrated 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.
James Tingle (Active 1824–1850): An accomplished English line engraver who worked extensively with leading London publishers to translate complex travel landscapes into fine-line steel engravings.