Nathaniel and Samuel Buck Paintings

Nathaniel and Samuel Buck were British brothers and artists, renowned for their detailed engravings of English and Welsh towns and landscapes during the 18th century. Nathaniel, the elder of the two, was born in 1696, while Samuel was born around 1700. Their work provides an invaluable glimpse into the urban and rural geography of Britain during a period of significant change and development.

The Bucks embarked on a series of journeys across England and Wales, starting in the 1720s, meticulously documenting the architectural and topographical features of the areas they visited. Their most celebrated works are the 'Bucks' Antiquities,' which include over 400 engravings that were published in several volumes between 1726 and 1754. These engravings are particularly valued for their accuracy and detail, offering insights into the architecture and landscape prior to the industrial revolution and urban expansion.

Beyond the 'Antiquities,' the Buck brothers also produced individual works of art, including portraits and other landscapes, although these are less well-known than their engravings. Their methodical approach to documenting Britain's towns and landscapes not only served as a record for their contemporaries but has also become a crucial resource for historians and conservationists, providing a snapshot of 18th-century Britain.

The significance of the Bucks' work was recognized in their time, and they enjoyed the patronage of several notable figures of the era. Despite this, little is known about their personal lives beyond their professional collaboration. Nathaniel Buck passed away in 1774, followed by Samuel Buck in 1779. Today, their engravings are held in high esteem, housed in collections both in Britain and internationally, testament to their enduring legacy as pioneers in the field of topographical illustration.