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Bookplate for Ambrose Isted

Unknown 19th Century

1850

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Romanticism Early 19th Century

Dominant colour

Bookplate for Ambrose Isted is a 1850 ink by Unknown 19th Century, a Romanticism work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?: Unknown 19th Century
When & what style?: 1850 · Romanticism
Where can I see it?: National Gallery of Art

About this work

This is a black-and-white engraving of a fancy family crest. At the top sits a deer with big antlers, perched on a crown. Below, a shield shows a pattern of small triangles and a person holding something. Swirling lines frame the shield, and a banner at the bottom reads *Nosce Teipsum*. Under that, the name "Ambrose Isted Esq." is written in cursive. The deer on the crown is a classic symbol for power or nobility. The motto *Nosce Teipsum* means "Know Thyself" in Latin, which was often used in old crests. Want to see more? Look up engraving to learn how artists like this made detailed prints.