The New Custom House From Billingsgate Hand Colored Steel Engraving Appraisal

The New Custom House, from Billingsgate - Hand-Colored Steel Engraving

This item is an original 19th-century hand-colored steel engraving titled 'The New Custom House, from Billingsgate.' The print depicts a bustling maritime scene along the River Thames in London, featuring the neoclassical architecture of the Custom House building designed by David Laing in the background. In the foreground, numerous figures in Georgian-era attire populate the wharf alongside traditional sailing vessels and rowing boats. The artwork is characterized by fine line work and delicate watercolor washes in shades of grey, blue, and ochre, with vibrant red accents on the figures' clothing. The print includes several key inscriptions: 'Engraved by W. Watkins' on the lower right, and a publication line at the bottom center stating 'London, Aug. 24, 1828; Published by Jones & Co. Acton Place, Kingsland Road, London.' The image is mounted in a modern cream-colored matboard, which bears a gold sticker in the upper right corner stating 'THIS ANTIQUARIAN PRINT IS GUARANTEED TO BE OVER 100 YEARS OLD.' A small white adhesive tag with the number '74' is visible in the bottom right corner of the mat. Regarding condition, the engraving appears to be in good antiquarian state. There is evidence of light foxing (small brown spots) and minor paper discoloration consistent with its age of nearly 200 years. The plate mark is visible around the perimeter of the image, indicating it is an authentic intaglio print. The craftsmanship reflects the high quality of early 19th-century British topographical illustration, popular for documenting urban development and architectural triumphs of the era.