Milk below Maids, plate 2 of The Cries of London, engraved by Luigi Schiavonetti (1765-1810), pub. by Colnaghi & Co., 1793
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About Reproduction
Bring the timeless beauty of Francis Wheatley's Milk below Maids, plate 2 of The Cries of London, engraved by Luigi Schiavonetti (1765-1810), pub. by Colnaghi & Co., 1793 into your home with a handmade oil painting reproduction. Carefully recreated on canvas by skilled artists using traditional techniques, this piece captures the delicate brushwork, subtle light, and vibrant color of the original masterpiece. With museum-level quality and rich texture, it brings elegance and artistic depth to any space. Enjoy free shipping and make this masterpiece a part of your personal collection.
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Original Description
The enchanting plate Milk below Maids from Francis Wheatley's The Cries of London series transports viewers to the bustling streets of 18th-century London, capturing the lively essence of street vendors with remarkable warmth and detail. Engraved by Luigi Schiavonetti in 1793 and published by Colnaghi & Co., this work exemplifies Wheatley's sentimental realism, blending genre painting with a touch of Rococo elegance. The scene depicts milkmaids balancing their pails with graceful poise, their expressions brimming with quiet dignity amid the urban hustle—a hallmark of Wheatley's empathetic portrayal of working-class life. Historically significant, The Cries of London was a cultural landmark, romanticizing street trades while reflecting Enlightenment-era curiosity about social diversity. Schiavonetti's masterful engraving technique elevates the composition, rendering delicate textures and atmospheric depth that made the series highly collectible. Today, it remains a cherished testament to Georgian-era urban aesthetics and social narrative art.
For a refined yet inviting decor scheme, this print would shine in a traditional study, a cozy dining nook, or a boutique hotel lounge. Its soft sepia tones and intricate linework harmonize beautifully with rich wood furnishings, antique brass accents, or muted taupe walls—creating a sense of timeless elegance. Consider pairing it with other Wheatley engravings in a gallery wall arrangement, using uniform matte black or gilt frames for cohesion. At approximately 12x15 inches (typical for folio engravings of the era), it’s ideal for intimate spaces where viewers can appreciate its details. For a modern twist, juxtapose it with minimalist Scandinavian decor; the contrast highlights its historical charm. Lighting is key: a warm-toned spotlight or vintage-inspired lamp will enhance its delicate shadows and evoke the glow of candlelit Georgian interiors. Ultimately, this piece adds narrative depth and sophistication to any space celebrating heritage or storytelling.
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Lead Time & Shipping
When you order this oil painting replica, it typically takes 2-3 weeks to paint. If the artwork is more complex, it might need a little more time to ensure the best quality. Once it's ready, we'll send you a photo for your approval. After you give the green light, we'll ship it to you for free.
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Return & Refund
We believe in the quality of our hand-painted oil painting reproductions, and your satisfaction is our priority. If for any reason, you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we offer a 45-day return policy. You can return your artwork within 45 days of receipt and receive a full refund. Please note that the artwork must be returned in the original packaging and in the same condition as it was received.
