Pompeian Veil – working proof with pencil additions

Arthur B. Davies (1862-1928), Pompeian Veil, soft ground etching with aquatint, with pencil additions, 1918-1919, with the stamp signature. Reference: Czestochowski 63, fifth state (or a state between the 4th and 5th) of 5. In generally good condition, soiling and soft folding in margins, 5 3/8 x 3 ¼, the sheet 9 7/8 x 7 ¼ inches.  Printed on a cream/yellow wove paper.

A good impression, with pencil additions to the nose, hair and hand of the figure; these additions were then made in the plate for Czestochowski’s fifth state. Only trial impressions were made of the fifth state.

Pompeian Veil went through extensive changes through its five states; the plate was substantially reduced in size in the third state, and then again in the fifth.

Detail, showing pencil work on profile and hand