Title Page of Book by Alleyne, Lord St. Helens

Art Historical Context

Welcome to the National Gallery of Art, this intriguing engraving invites us into the world of early 19th-century British and printmaking. Titled *Title Page of Book byne, Lord St. Helens*, this unknown artist's work was published in 1802 Measuring 38.7 × 25.7 cm, it served as the elegant frontispiece for a book by Alleyne Fitzherbert, 1st Baron St.ens—a prominent diplomat who negotiated key treaties during the turbulent Napoleonic era. Title pages like this were essential in scholarly and political publications, setting a tone of authority and refinement. Engraving, the medium here, was a pinnacle of precision in the period, involving incising designs into metal plates with fine tools for inked impressions on paper. This technique allowed for intricate details and mass reproduction, making high-quality illustrations accessible beyond elite circles. Produced amid Europe's shifting alliances, the print reflects the era's blend of neoclassical elegance and Enlightenment intellectualism. Part of the renowned Rosenwald Collection in our Prints department (CG-E), this piece highlights the artistry of book production and the cultural role of engravings in disseminating ideas. Pause to appreciate how such modest sheets bridged literature and visual culture for Regency audiences!