Pair of Virginia Metalcrafters Barraud Horsemen Hand-Colored Restrike Engravings

An exceptional matched pair of Virginia Metalcrafters “Barraud Horsemen” hand-colored restrike engravings, depicting two classic nineteenth-century British sporting subjects: Mr. Charles Davis on “The Traverser” and Mr. William Long on “Bertha.”

The compositions are after equestrian paintings by William and Henry Barraud. The original engravings were executed by British engraver Edward Hacker (1813–1905) in the mid-nineteenth century, circa 1849.

These Virginia Metalcrafters editions are particularly interesting because they are not simply later photographic reproductions of the images. Each retains its original Virginia Metalcrafters Certificate of Authenticity identifying it as a restrike engraving, hand printed from the old plate and hand colored.

The certificates identify the series as “Barraud Horsemen” and credit the original engraving to E. Hacker after W. H. Barraud.

The matched pair retains consecutive Virginia Metalcrafters inventory numbers:

Mr. Charles Davis on “The Traverser” — Item No. 1151-1

Mr. William Long on “Bertha” — Item No. 1151-2, Order No. 35/342

Both engravings are presented under glass with generous multi-line matting and coordinating wood frames finished with red and gilt detailing. At nearly 30 inches wide each, the pair has substantial scale and was clearly intended to be displayed together.

While especially fitting for an equestrian or Kentucky collection, their appeal extends well beyond sporting art. The strong scale, restrained palette, and classic British subject matter make them equally at home in a traditional library, study, entryway, English country-inspired interior, hunt-country home, or layered gallery wall. Hung together or positioned symmetrically on either side of a doorway, cabinet, or architectural feature, they make a striking statement.

PROVENANCE

Sourced from the estate of a historic Kentucky home formerly owned by a former mayor of Bardstown, Kentucky. Their Kentucky provenance feels particularly appropriate for a pair of nineteenth-century equestrian subjects depicting horses, riders, and hounds.

APPROXIMATE MEASUREMENTS

27 1/2” H × 29” W each

CONDITION

Vintage condition consistent with age. There is scuffing and light scratching to the red finish of the wood frames, including slight scratching to the red decorative detailing. The paper backing of Mr. William Long on “Bertha” has a small tear near the top. Both engravings remain matted and framed under glass. Please review all photographs carefully, as they form part of the condition description.

SHIPPING

This listing is for the matched pair; the engravings will not be separated for sale. Because of their substantial size, glass, and framing, the two pieces will be carefully packed and shipped in two separate boxes for safer transit. Please allow additional handling time for proper packing. Shipping is capped at $60 for the pair.

We do not expect old things to be perfect. We expect them to be worth owning.