This exceptional work is a masterclass in early 20th-century printmaking, bridging the modern avant-garde with centuries of Flemish tradition. Sourced in Belgium, this etching is from Ramah’s celebrated first series of 25 illustrations for Charles De Coster’s epic masterpiece, Thyl Ulenspiegel, published in a scarce edition of 130 copies in 1913. (The first 30 of the edition were notably printed on simili-Japan paper, while Ramah would later create a second, separate series of 25 illustrations for the epic between 1920–22).
The composition depicts the iconic, intimate opening scene of the legend: a robust Claes lifting his newborn son, Thyl, in a moment of triumphant celebration, while his wife watches from a curtained bed. The scene serves as a deliberate and sophisticated homage to the humanist warmth and storytelling of the Flemish Golden Age.
While the imagery captures the spirit of the 1600s, this is a hand-signed piece from that momentous 1913 portfolio, numbered 41/130, by the celebrated Belgian modern master Ramah (Henri François Raemaekers, 1887–1947). Known for his superb draftsmanship and central role in the Brabant Expressionist movement, Ramah chose to print this specific part of the edition on prestigious sheets of antique, 17th-century hand-laid paper, lending the impression an unmistakable authority and historical weight.
The true significance of this piece lies in the physical support: the image itself is printed directly onto this rare "Unicorn" laid paper. When held to transmitted light, the sheet reveals a magnificent, crisp Unicorn watermark paired with a scrolled countermark. This confirms that the paper dates from circa 1640–1680, a period when unicorn watermarks signified the absolute highest quality "fin" grade papers produced in the Low Countries. By pulling this 1913 illustration on a 400-year-old watermarked sheet, Ramah created a fascinating material dialogue, making this a dual-interest treasure for both fine art collectors and specialists in paper history.
The etching is in excellent, stable condition. The antique laid paper shows a characteristic, warm "age-toning" and light, honest foxing throughout, which organically validates its 17th-century origin and enhances the atmospheric depth of Ramah's line work. The historic Unicorn watermark remains exceptionally crisp and is beautifully visible under a lightbox. The piece has been newly float-mounted in a contemporary black-lacquered, ebony-style frame using museum-grade, acid-free materials to fully display the natural deckled edges of the sheet.
Height: 35 cm / 13.8 inch
Width: 31 cm / 12.2 inch
Depth: 3.5 cm / 1.4 inch
Weight: 1 k.g. / 2.2 lbs
Cleaning, Polishing & Restoration
Within our workshop, every piece entrusted to us receives the utmost care and attention. As Guild of Master Craftsmen–approved restorers, we use traditional methods, ensuring each item is sympathetically cleaned and polished while preserving its original finish, colour, and patina. We take great pride in maintaining the authenticity and integrity of every surface, allowing the true character and history of each piece to shine through.
All period lighting is meticulously assessed and restored to the highest standard. Our comprehensive service includes professional rewiring in accordance with current UK electrical regulations, PAT testing, and where appropriate the fitting of new lamp holders, discreet repairs, and deep cleaning. Each light is restored with care to ensure both safety and functionality while preserving its period charm and originality.
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