R. Ackermann
No.16
c.1810-1813
Woodcut engraving with Fabric Samples
One of the many people who took advantage of England's industrial age was a printmaking entrepreneur named Rudolph Ackermann (1764-1834), an Anglo-German bookseller, inventory, lithographer and publisher. Among other things he was also a successful shop owner, his store the Repository of Arts opened in 1797 and became a spot for the English elite to socialize and shop for prints, illustrated books, decorative objects, art supplies, old master paintings and miniatures.Ackermann extended his shop and created a yearly publication that showcased British manufacturing, in 1809 he began publishing his serious The Repository of Arts, Literature, Commerce, Manufacturers, Fashions ad Politics. Ackermann's Repository, as it was also known, influenced English fashion, tastes, architecture, politics and literature throughout the Regency period and into the Georgian Era.
R. Ackermann
No. 17
c.1810-1813
Woodcut engraving with Fabric Samples
In an effort to boost British manufacturing and commerce, Ackermann included textile samples from premiere manufacturers. These woodcut engraving showcased real fabric samples that were adhered to the engraving. These fabric swatches appealed to fashion lovers and those who furnishing and designing their homes. On the next page the fabric swatches are described and note its designed cultural influences. The pieces of fabric stand out again an allegorical background, featuring a woman at her loom, a bust of Athena and her shield of Medusa near the Freemason's symbol the compass and square. And to the far right a library filled with busts, books, and other minute cultural references. Mast sails peak out of the background, floating around a German Imperial Crown. Below features the symbol of the prince of whales, an emblem of the British Monarchy, a crown with silver ostrich feathers. Perhaps these crowns are featured because of Ackermann's cultural heritage. Interestingly The Repository's last issue in 1829 was a dedicated fashion issue. Though Ackermann's shop closed and his Repository issues ended, his print making legacy was carried on by his decedents till the late 20th century.
A selection of Ackermann's Repository Textile Woodcuts will be featured in our under $300 section at the Hillsborough Spring Antique Show April 29-May 1. These works will be accompanied by our magnificent Audubon quadrupeds, Redoute flowers, Double Hemisphere projections, and California maps.
Feel free to can contact the gallery at (415)-788-5115.
Aader Galleries 432 Jackson Street, San Francisco, Ca, 94111
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