Antique 1798 Shakespeare Engraving by Thomas Ryder – Henry IV, Falstaff, Large Boydell Print Bring a piece of 18th-century theatrical history into your home. This stunning, large-scale 1798 engraving by renowned printmaker Thomas Ryder captures a classic moment of comedic brilliance from Shakespeare’s Henry IV, Part 2 (Act III, Scene II). Based on the original painting by John Durno, this print was part of John Boydell’s monumental Shakespeare Gallery project—a historic effort to celebrate Britain's greatest playwright. The scene takes place at Justice Shallow’s seat in Gloucestershire, featuring a brilliant lineup of classic Shakespearean characters: Falstaff, Shallow, Silence, Bardolph, and the conscripts (Mouldy, Shadow, Wart, Feeble, and Bullcalf). The expressive details and dramatic contrast in this late-Georgian plate are absolutely spectacular. Beautiful antique condition. Remarkably clean image area with only minimal spots of age-appropriate foxing. Framing Ready: Features generous borders, leaving plenty of room for custom matting and framing. (Note: We highly recommend using archival, acid-free materials to preserve this masterpiece for the next two centuries!) Plate Mark: 24.75" W x 19.25" H Full Paper Size: 26.25" W x 20.25" H A fine opportunity!