George Bickham The Musical Entertainer
Antique Sheet Music 1737

While our images are electronically watermarked, the antique prints themselves are not.

The Rival or Desponding Lover BIC19 $145
Each print measures approximately 9 inches wide by 14 1/4 inches long

We are delighted to offer prints from this very rare work, with original copper engravings of English songs set to music by such luminaries as Handel, Purcell, Haydn, Corelli & others. Prints from this work are rarely offered, as the work in its entirety is now priced at $30,000 or more. We were fortunate to find a fragment which has been professionally restored by an English expert, and then beautifully hand colored.

This superb series of engraved musical pieces was first published in parts of four plates each and issued fortnightly between 1737 and 1739. Each print is headed by a charming engraved vignette with scenes of contemporary life illustrative of the song, in a mature rococo style, some in the French manner after Watteau.

It is Bickham’s masterpiece & the first work of its type in England. Many more followed this initial resounding success. We are particularly pleased to present this ancient work, with music written by such great musicians as Handel & published during his lifetime. We do consider it eminently suitable for the date as there are many beautiful love songs.

Each print measures approximately 9 inches wide by 14 1/4 inches long. The paper is fine, high quality hand made chain lined paper, light creamy in color. On many, there is a very unusual unicorn watermark, similar to the one seen in the first issue of Chaucer’s Canterbury tales. The condition of these prints is excellent, with the paper almost entirely free of foxing. There is no descriptive text. Please inspect the image carefully, as it is very accurate. These prints are about 270 years old and represent an enchanting part of our musical heritage.

We accept credit cards & PayPal. Washington state residents pay Washington state sales tax. Shipping for this item is $8.95. Items can be combined to save on postage. Our environment is smoke free. We pack professionally using only new materials. All items are beautifully wrapped and suitable for sending directly as gifts. You may return any item within 7 days if not satisfied. To order, you may call us at 1-888-PANTEEK, fax or email.

  


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