Antique c.1860s Steel Engraving — "Thomas Jefferson" — Ornate Oval Portrait with Great Seal Eagle & Declaration of Independence Vignette — Engraved by Bouch — Published by T. Knight / D. Appleton & Co., New York
You are looking at an original 19th-century steel engraving of Thomas Jefferson, from the celebrated D. Appleton & Co. series of American presidential portraits.
The portrait is a striking oval likeness of Jefferson set within one of the most elaborate decorative borders in 19th-century American portrait engraving:
•A large central oval portrait of Jefferson in his characteristic high-collared coat, rendered with exceptional detail in the face and hair
•Top crown: The United States Great Seal — the bald eagle with shield, arrows, and olive branch — displayed prominently at the top of the ornate rococo border, symbolizing Jefferson's role as a Founding Father and President
•Bottom vignette: A detailed oval scene captioned "Jefferson showing the draft of Declaration of Independence to Franklin and Adams" — the historic moment when Jefferson presented his draft of the Declaration to Benjamin Franklin and John Adams for review. This is the famous Committee of Five scene, one of the most historically significant moments in American history.
•Facsimile signature "Thomas Jefferson" in script below the portrait
•Elaborate rococo scrollwork, acanthus leaves, and floral garlands throughout the border
Thomas Jefferson (1743–1826) was the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, the third President of the United States, founder of the University of Virginia, and one of the most intellectually accomplished figures in American history. He served as the first Secretary of State, second Vice President, and third President. His face appears on the $2 bill and the nickel.
Condition: Please review all photos carefully before purchasing. This is an antique piece with age-related wear. The central portrait is clean, crisp, and fully intact with strong contrast and excellent detail. However, this piece has significant condition issues that must be disclosed:
•Left edge damage: Major tearing and paper loss along the left margin, with the upper left corner missing. This is the most significant condition issue.
•Overall toning: The sheet has significant overall yellowing from age.
•Scattered foxing: Multiple small brown spots throughout the sheet.
•Verso: Moisture staining/tide lines on the back of the sheet.
Despite these condition issues, the portrait itself — which is what buyers are paying for — is clean and striking. This piece is priced to reflect its condition. A buyer who plans to frame it with a mat will find that the left edge damage is largely hidden behind the mat.
What you receive: The original antique engraving only. Not framed. Genuine mid-19th century print. Ships flat between rigid cardboard, fully insured.