Royal Mail Coach Print Appraisal

Framed Print: Royal Mail Coach

This item is a framed print or engraving titled "ROYAL MAIL COACH," depicting a historical scene of a horse-drawn mail coach in motion. The primary colors visible are muted greens and blues, suggesting a hand-colored or tinted print, possibly a mezzotint or aquatint, common during the 18th and 19th centuries. The image prominently features a four-horse team pulling a richly detailed mail coach, with passengers and a driver visible. The coach itself appears dark, possibly black or deep blue, with lighter details, perhaps gold or white accents, on its side. In the background, there is a large, classical-style building, possibly a manor or public institution, set amidst trees and what appears to be a formal landscape. Further in the background, there are hints of a cityscape or other structures. The overall artistic style suggests a Georgian or early Victorian period, likely late 18th or early 19th century, given the subject matter and common printing techniques of that era. The print shows evidence of age, with some slight discoloration or foxing visible, though difficult to ascertain precisely due to reflections on the glass. The print is housed under glass within a multi-layered frame. The innermost layer is a narrow gold-colored fillet, followed by a wider, dark green mat or liner, and an outermost ornate gold-toned wooden frame. The frame has a classic, slightly distressed or antiqued finish, with a decorative profile. Reflections on the glass prevent a clear view of the entire print, but no obvious tears or significant damage to the print itself are discernible, aside from potential age-related patina. The 'G1731' on the back suggests a possible inventory number, print edition number, or framer's mark, which could aid in further identification. The craftsmanship of the frame appears solid, indicating a commercial framing job suitable for a period print.