Antique Cries of London Hand-Colored Engravings, Pair in Wood Frames | After Francis Wheatley

A quietly captivating pair of antique English engravings after Francis Wheatley’s celebrated Cries of London series, presented in warm-toned wooden frames and offered together as a matching set.

These richly detailed scenes depict two beloved street vendor subjects originally conceived in the late eighteenth century: Knives, Scissors and Razors to Grind and Turnips and Carrots. Based on Wheatley’s iconic paintings and engraved by noted printmakers including Thomas Gaugain, the series remains one of the most enduring visual records of everyday life in Georgian London.

Each print features delicate hand-applied color and finely rendered detail, preserving the narrative charm and painterly quality that made the original series so widely admired. The softly muted palette, aged paper, and traditional framing give the pair a timeless presence that feels equally at home in a study, library, hallway, or layered gallery wall.

Offered together, they create a thoughtful and highly decorative grouping—historically evocative, visually balanced, and ready to hang.

Measurements (each):

• Overall framed size: approximately 6 1/2” H x 5 1/2” W
• Visible print area: approximately 4 3/4” H x 3 1/2” W
• Frame depth: approximately 1 1/4”

Condition:
Both pieces are presented in vintage wooden frames with age-appropriate wear, including minor rubbing and small surface marks consistent with time. The paper shows gentle toning, and the original backing paper remains in place with expected age-related wear. These characteristics are consistent with antique framed works and add to their authentic character.

Styling Notes:
Beautiful displayed as a pair above a writing desk, nestled into a gallery wall, or layered on bookshelves among antique books, portraits, and brass objects. Their intimate scale makes them especially suited to powder rooms, libraries, and quiet corners where small works can be appreciated up close.

Historical Note:
Francis Wheatley’s Cries of London series was first published in the 1790s and became one of the most iconic depictions of London street life. These examples are best described as antique hand-colored engravings after the original works, likely printed in the 19th century and later framed.

Collected slowly. Chosen with care.