Oxford Press Prints Appraisal

The Strawberry Girl print after Sir Joshua Reynolds, Oxford Press Wallace Collection No. 40

This item is a historical print, specifically a reproduction of 'The Strawberry Girl' painting by Sir Joshua Reynolds. The print itself is presented within a buff or light brown colored mat board, which has an approximate size that is significantly larger than the image area, suggesting it was intended for framing or as part of a larger bound collection. The image depicts a young girl gazeing forward with a sad or melancholic expression. She is dressed in simple, flowing garments of a yellowish-white hue, with fabric gathered and textured, and a small bow visible at her neckline. Her hair is styled in a bun or wrapped turban-like on her head. The background is dark and indistinct on the left, transitioning to a lighter, somewhat abstract landscape on the right, suggesting a natural outdoor setting, possibly with trees or rocks. A basket or container is visible held in her left arm, though its contents (assumed to be strawberries based on the title) are not clearly visible. The print is framed by a thin, gold-colored border printed directly onto the image area, creating a secondary visual frame. The mat board shows some signs of age, including slight discoloration and minor wear along the edges, particularly visible on the upper left corner where a slight tear or crease is present. The print itself appears to be in good condition with vibrant colors appropriate for an older print, indicating good preservation from light exposure. The overall aesthetic is classical and evocative of 18th-century portraiture. The information provided (Oxford Press Wallace Collection no. 40 by Sir Joshua Reynolds) indicates that this is a high-quality reproduction, likely part of a series showcasing famous artworks, possibly published in the early 20th century.