Original 1894 Antique Illustration / Plate
From "Manchester Old and New" by William Arthur Shaw, M.A.
Illustrated after original drawings by H. E. Tidmarsh
Published by Cassell and Company Limited, 1894
An authentic, original Victorian plate depicting historical scenes and landmarks of Manchester. Perfect for framing, interior design projects, or for local history enthusiasts.
Key Features & Details:
Date: 1894 (Guaranteed over 130 years old)
Illustrator: H. E. Tidmarsh (renowned Victorian topographic artist)
Overall Sheet Size: Approx. 30 cm x 22 cm
Reverse Side: Blank (no text or illustration on the back, making it ideal for mounting and framing)
Condition: Excellent antique condition.
Packaging & Shipping:
Henry Edward Tidmarsh (1854–1939) was an industrious Victorian and early 20th-century British artist and illustrator best known for his meticulous, evocative topographical watercolours of London and Manchester. Born in Islington into a family of Methodist carpenters, Tidmarsh bypassed the family trade to study at the National Art Training School (now the Royal College of Art). He built a versatile career creating ink, wash, and watercolour illustrations for major periodicals such as The Graphic, The Illustrated London News, and Cassell's Magazine, including over 150 illustrations depicting Manchester urban life for Cassell's in 1896. Beyond his commercial illustration work, he exhibited regularly at prestigious institutions—including twenty paintings displayed at the Royal Academy of Arts between 1887 and 1918—capturing the architectural textures, atmospheric lighting, and everyday street life of bustling cities. A devout Methodist, local preacher, pacifist, and vegetarian, Tidmarsh remained active throughout his long life; today, substantial collections of his works are preserved at the Guildhall Library in London and the Manchester Art Gallery.