The type foundry and print shop of old would create books, like the one this image was discovered within, to help customers and clients with their design choices. Naturally, these books were jam packed with useful illustrative elements that could be combined to create a final piece. Today, these books are extremely difficult to get a hold of. Especially those that were published in the late 1800s. They were not mainstream publications, they simply served as ‘catalogs’ and thus were only produced in small numbers. Fortunately, we were introduced to a collector who had precisely what we had been searching for for so long. After some costly negotiations, we’re very excited to be able to share the wonderful gems within.
The type foundry and print shop of old would create books, like the one this image was discovered within, to help customers and clients with their design choices. Naturally, these books were jam packed with useful illustrative elements that could be combined to create a final piece. Today, these books are extremely difficult to get a hold of. Especially those that were published in the late 1800s. They were not mainstream publications, they simply served as ‘catalogs’ and thus were only produced in small numbers. Fortunately, we were introduced to a collector who had precisely what we had been searching for for so long. After some costly negotiations, we’re very excited to be able to share the wonderful gems within.
The type foundry and print shop of old would create books, like the one this image was discovered within, to help customers and clients with their design choices. Naturally, these books were jam packed with useful illustrative elements that could be combined to create a final piece. Today, these books are extremely difficult to get a hold of. Especially those that were published in the late 1800s. They were not mainstream publications, they simply served as ‘catalogs’ and thus were only produced in small numbers. Fortunately, we were introduced to a collector who had precisely what we had been searching for for so long. After some costly negotiations, we’re very excited to be able to share the wonderful gems within.
The type foundry and print shop of old would create books, like the one this image was discovered within, to help customers and clients with their design choices. Naturally, these books were jam packed with useful illustrative elements that could be combined to create a final piece. Today, these books are extremely difficult to get a hold of. Especially those that were published in the late 1800s. They were not mainstream publications, they simply served as ‘catalogs’ and thus were only produced in small numbers. Fortunately, we were introduced to a collector who had precisely what we had been searching for for so long. After some costly negotiations, we’re very excited to be able to share the wonderful gems within.
You’re looking at a well preserved original plate from Johann Georg Heck’s “Iconographic Encyclopedia of Sciences, Literature and Art” published in 1851 by Rudolphe Garrigue in New York. We were extremely fortunate to acquire the full collection of illustrative prints from the series, which after many months of looking, proved to be very difficult!
You’re looking at a well preserved original plate from Johann Georg Heck’s “Iconographic Encyclopedia of Sciences, Literature and Art” published in 1851 by Rudolphe Garrigue in New York. We were extremely fortunate to acquire the full collection of illustrative prints from the series, which after many months of looking, proved to be very difficult!
You’re looking at an original, beautifully coloured chromolithograph print from ‘The Fruit Grower’s Guide’ by John Wright May Rivers, published by H. Virtue & Company in 1890.
An original Antique Plate scan from the National Encyclopaedia: A Dictionary of Universal Knowledge. Published by William Mackenzie in 1880. Click on the Artist’s name to see the full collection from this series!
An original Antique Plate scan from the National Encyclopaedia: A Dictionary of Universal Knowledge. Published by William Mackenzie in 1880. Click on the Artist’s name to see the full collection from this series!
This 167 year old scan is from “U.S.P.R.R. Exp. & Surveys – To ascertain the most practicable and economical route for a railroad from the Mississippi River to the Pacific Ocean. Made under the direction of the secretary of war in 1853-1856”. The artwork inside was some of the most artistic and accurate prints made of Birds, Mammals, Reptiles and Fish from the American West. Many of the Lithographs were beautifully hand-colored by a group of naturalists and artists who travelled with the expedition surverying the West for the U.S. Pacific Railroad. Search our archives or click on the artist name below to view the rest of the collection!
You’re looking at a well preserved original plate from Johann Georg Heck’s “Iconographic Encyclopedia of Sciences, Literature and Art” published in 1851 by Rudolphe Garrigue in New York. We were extremely fortunate to acquire the full collection of illustrative prints from the series, which after many months of looking, proved to be very difficult!
You’re looking at a beautiful piece of Japanese woodblock art from our collection of original 1881 prints by noted artist, Kono Bairei; Created for one of his best-known publications ‘one hundred birds’. Most of the bird species throughout this collection were native to Japan, with a few domesticated and some imported cage birds. Bairei was born and lived in Kyoto. He was apprenticed to the Maruyama printer Nakajima Raiso at the age of eight. He was a pupil of Shijo artist Shiokawa Bunrin and followed the Nanga school tradition. He established the Kyoto Prefectural School of Painting before opening his own studio to students and retiring from teaching.
You’re looking at a well preserved original plate from Johann Georg Heck’s “Iconographic Encyclopedia of Sciences, Literature and Art” published in 1851 by Rudolphe Garrigue in New York. We were extremely fortunate to acquire the full collection of illustrative prints from the series, which after many months of looking, proved to be very difficult!
A collection of seven hand-drawn vintage portraits of women from the 1920s, showcasing a variety of fashionable hairstyles, facial expressions, and styling typical of the era. Each face is individually illustrated with fine pen line work.
This festive Halloween-themed collection features a variety of joyful scenes including jack-o’-lanterns, costumed children, and autumnal activities. The playful black-and-white artwork captures the nostalgic charm of early 20th-century Halloween traditions, perfect for seasonal crafts, spooky invitations, and vintage-inspired decor.
This vintage sea shell illustration was carefully isolated from a hand-colored engraving published in the mid-1800s. Part of a detailed natural history collection, it showcases the intricate textures and rich tones typical of 19th-century scientific illustration. Perfect for collage, print, or digital design work, this transparent PNG retains the charm and precision of antique artwork while offering modern usability.
This vintage sea shell illustration was carefully isolated from a hand-colored engraving published in the mid-1800s. Part of a detailed natural history collection, it showcases the intricate textures and rich tones typical of 19th-century scientific illustration. Perfect for collage, print, or digital design work, this transparent PNG retains the charm and precision of antique artwork while offering modern usability.
This vintage sea shell illustration was carefully isolated from a hand-colored engraving published in the mid-1800s. Part of a detailed natural history collection, it showcases the intricate textures and rich tones typical of 19th-century scientific illustration. Perfect for collage, print, or digital design work, this transparent PNG retains the charm and precision of antique artwork while offering modern usability.
This vintage sea shell illustration was carefully isolated from a hand-colored engraving published in the mid-1800s. Part of a detailed natural history collection, it showcases the intricate textures and rich tones typical of 19th-century scientific illustration. Perfect for collage, print, or digital design work, this transparent PNG retains the charm and precision of antique artwork while offering modern usability.
This image is part of our exquisite collection of vintage autumn leaf illustrations, meticulously revived from antique treasures. Each leaf comes as a high-resolution, transparent PNG file, perfect for graphic designers, illustrators, and creative hobbyists alike.
Use these botanical clipart pieces to elevate your projects, whether it’s for invitations, decor, branding, or packaging. Infuse your designs with the graceful charm of nature using these timeless, printable leaf graphics.
This image is part of our exquisite collection of vintage autumn leaf illustrations, meticulously revived from antique treasures. Each leaf comes as a high-resolution, transparent PNG file, perfect for graphic designers, illustrators, and creative hobbyists alike.
Use these botanical clipart pieces to elevate your projects, whether it’s for invitations, decor, branding, or packaging. Infuse your designs with the graceful charm of nature using these timeless, printable leaf graphics.
This image is part of our exquisite collection of vintage autumn leaf illustrations, meticulously revived from antique treasures. Each leaf comes as a high-resolution, transparent PNG file, perfect for graphic designers, illustrators, and creative hobbyists alike.
Use these botanical clipart pieces to elevate your projects, whether it’s for invitations, decor, branding, or packaging. Infuse your designs with the graceful charm of nature using these timeless, printable leaf graphics.
This image is part of our Extensive Collection of 135 Greek, Roman, and Mythology Vintage Line Art Illustrations. Each piece hand-selected from a variety of 19th-century books and ephemera found within our private library.
This image is part of our Extensive Collection of 135 Greek, Roman, and Mythology Vintage Line Art Illustrations. Each piece hand-selected from a variety of 19th-century books and ephemera found within our private library.
This image is part of our Extensive Collection of 135 Greek, Roman, and Mythology Vintage Line Art Illustrations. Each piece hand-selected from a variety of 19th-century books and ephemera found within our private library.
A line art illustration of a South African giraffe, showcasing its long neck and graceful stature with detailed anatomical accuracy
A vintage illustration of an otter skeleton in a walking pose, showing its elongated body and detailed bone structure. This transparent PNG is perfect for scientific and wildlife studies.
A historic map from the 19th century depicting Eastern Pennsylvania, including detailed county lines, cities, and an inset of Philadelphia. This map captures the region’s development and growth.
This antique map of Persia (modern-day Iran), Afghanistan, and Baluchistan highlights the geopolitical borders and key cities of the early 20th century. The map details the region’s topographical features, including mountain ranges, rivers, and deserts, offering a comprehensive view of the landscape. It provides a historical perspective on the political and geographical divisions in this part of the Middle East and South Asia during the period.
This detailed map of the northern part of the German Empire highlights key cities such as Hamburg and Berlin, along with roads and geographical features. The map offers a historical perspective on the region’s landscape and its urban development during the time period. Its vintage style and detailed cartography make it an invaluable resource for collectors and history enthusiasts. The map’s detailed depiction of the area’s geography is a window into the past.
This vintage map of Southern France details the region’s towns, roads, and geographical features, with a particular focus on Marseille and the Mediterranean coast. The map provides a comprehensive look at the area’s historical geography, making it a valuable addition for collectors and history enthusiasts. The insets offer additional details about Marseille and surrounding areas, enhancing the map’s appeal and utility.
A vintage map depicting the northern part of California, highlighting major cities like San Francisco and natural landmarks such as Yosemite Valley. The map provides detailed insights into the region’s geographical features, transportation routes, and historical importance.
This historical map of the Austria-Hungary Empire showcases detailed regional boundaries, cities, and extensive railway networks. The map includes significant areas like Budapest and Vienna, providing a comprehensive view of the empire’s geographical and political landscape during the period.
A detailed vintage map showing the southeast part of Australia, including Victoria, New South Wales, and parts of South Australia and Queensland. The map highlights major cities, railways, and geographical features, offering a historical perspective on the region’s layout during the period.
This antique map from the 1800s illustrates the Arabian Peninsula, including Arabia, Oman, and Aden. The vintage map highlights the region’s historical geography, boundaries, and important cities, offering a detailed view of the area during the colonial period. A valuable resource for those interested in Middle Eastern history and cartography.
This vintage map from the 1800s illustrates North-East Africa, including Egypt, Sudan, and the Nile Delta. The map is a beautiful representation of the region’s historical geography, showing important cities, boundaries, and geographical features from the colonial era. A valuable piece for those interested in African history and cartography.
Our supporters and members help us continue collecting and restoring these wonderful pieces of art for the modern creator
While a lot of the library is available for free, some is kept behind closed dusty doors only to be accessed by our lovely members.