This is a scarce c. 1820s watercolored engraving by D. Gerolimo, best known for popularizing Regency and Georgian-era reverse-painted and printed glass pictures. I believe the "Children in the Wood" story represented here is a traditional English morality tale dating as far back as the late 16th century, about two orphaned children abandoned by a greedy uncle who was after their inheritance. (Sometimes called “Babes in the Woods,” the tale also seems to have influenced the later story of Hansel and Gretel.) Lots to be found out there about that brutal uncle and the whole tale, but here I think it is the children's mother on her death bed being depicted, which sets their story in motion. Some general toning and some water staining to the lower half, but I think it is quite a good one, and feels very true to the wrenching feelings of a mother losing control of the fate of her dear ones.
6" x 4". General toning, staining to the lower half, and small loss to left edge of paper as shown, but paper not especially brittle or fragile and color very strong and striking.
