The Nymph Arethusa – 19th Century Heliogravure Reproduction after Adelaide Salles Wagner

A 19th-century heliogravure titled The Nymph Arethusa, reproduced after the original painting by French academic artist Adelaide Salles-Wagner (1825–1890). The composition depicts the mythological nymph Arethusa reclining beside a rocky stream, drawn from classical Greek mythology and associated with themes of transformation, vulnerability, and nature.

This heliogravure was produced as a fine art reproduction of Salles-Wagner’s painting, as indicated in the original plate inscription: “The Nymph Arethusa. From the Painting by Mme. Adelaide Salles-Wagner.” The image is printed on wove paper with generous margins and exhibits light age toning and subtle surface wear consistent with late 19th-century photographic gravure processes.

About Heliogravure:
Heliogravure, also known as photogravure, is a refined intaglio printing technique developed in the 19th century that combines photographic imagery with traditional copperplate engraving. Celebrated for its deep tonal gradation and soft, painterly textures, heliogravure was widely used to reproduce important academic and salon paintings. Each impression is individually printed from an etched plate, making heliogravures true fine art prints rather than mechanical reproductions, and highly sought after by collectors.

Print Details
• Image Size: 14.5 × 10.5 in
• Technique: Heliogravure on wove paper
• Artist: after Adelaide Salles-Wagner
• Subject: Greek mythology / Arethusa
• Condition: Good overall; light age toning; minor surface wear; unframed

Disclaimer:
I have conducted thorough research to ensure accuracy and authenticity to the best of my ability. This item is sold as is, with no guarantees or warranties regarding provenance or historical attribution.