800 Decorative Woodcuts for Artists and Craftspeople

This volume offers artists and craftspeople an outstanding collection of early woodcuts on many topics. First published in 1862, in a limited edition of only 100 copies, this comprehensive sourcebook includes meticulous reproductions of 800 cuts used to illustrate histories, broadsides, ballads and other popular literature. They were first compiled by a Newcastle printer, circa 1708. Many date back to a much earlier time, however, including the original cut that appeared on the title page of the first edition of Robin Hood's Garland, published in 1670. Also included are detailed depictions of a knight on horseback, ships at sea and in port, harvest scenes, a knight slaying a dragon, a condemned man at the gallows, knights jousting, borders and frames, portraits of royalty, advertising signage of the day, illustrations of religious subjects, and many more. This is an invaluable resource of copyright-free art ideal for giving old-time ambience to a host of art and craft projects. It will also be a wonderful browsing book for lovers of fine woodcuts and antique illustrations.