Axel Herman Haig RE (1835-1921) - Early 20th Century Etching Geierstein

Description

This charming etching depicts the fictional castle from Anne of Geierstein by Sir Walter Scott. The scene shows the castle sitting in the Swiss mountains where the famous Gothic novel is based. Capturing the castle's cascading towers and a dramatic landscape, the artist certainly imagines the scene with a similar ode to the sublime as Scott does in the story. Signed and titled in graphite within the plate lines. On paper.

Condition

There is some creasing to the corners of the paper. There is a tear to the centre right edge measuring at 2cm. There is a scratch to the centre left of the print.

Size

53 x 36cm (20.9" x 14.2")

Artist Biography

Axel Herman Haig (1835-1921) was a painter, etcher, illustrator and architect born in Katthamra on the island of Gotland, Sweden. After studying naval architecture and shipbuilding in Karlskrona, in 1856 he moved to Glasgow, Scotland to continue his training. He subsequently moved to London, where he remained for a number of years before settling in Haslemere, Surrey. Haig was elected RE in 1881 and also showed at the Royal Birmingham Society of Artists, Dowdeswells, Dudley Gallery, Fine Art Society, Walker Art Gallery, Royal Academy of Arts, Royal Society of British Artists and Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours. However, he continued to pay regular visits to Sweden and was elected a member of the Royal Swedish Academy.






In total, Axel Haig produced more than four hundred etchings, the majority depicting castles, towers and cathedrals in both England and on the Continent. The Victoria and Albert Museum and the British Museum, both hold examples of his etched work. Haig died in Southsea, Hampshire.