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SKU: CG-LESLIE-ROMANOV-EMPRESS-1883
Original 1883 engraved leaf from Frank Leslie’s Popular Monthly, July 1883 issue (Vol. XVI, No. 1), from the article:
“The Tsars of Russia”
This single leaf presents two distinct historical portraits across both sides, offering a compelling pairing within one original publication:
• Recto: Maria Alexandrovna, Empress of Russia — finely engraved oval portrait emphasizing imperial elegance, jewelry, and courtly presentation
• Verso: Michael Romanoff (Romanov), Founder of the Imperial Russian Dynasty — formal bust portrait highlighting dynastic origins and authority
This is an especially strong dual-subject leaf, combining:
• Female imperial portrait (rarer and desirable in Leslie material)
• Foundational dynastic figure (Romanov origin)
The pairing enhances both historical and visual appeal—linking the origins of the Romanov line with its later imperial expression.
Executed in crisp 19th-century wood engraving, with clean line work and strong tonal contrast typical of Leslie’s illustrated historical series.
Condition
• Original single leaf (printed on both sides)
• Moderate to heavy age toning (notably at upper margins)
• Edge wear and corner wear consistent with disbinding
• Light spotting and handling marks
• Engravings remain clear, dark, and fully legible
Overall: Solid collectible example with strong imagery despite age wear.
Details
• Publication: Frank Leslie’s Popular Monthly
• Date: July 1883
• Volume: XVI, No. 1
• Article: “The Tsars of Russia”
• Subjects: Maria Alexandrovna; Michael Romanoff
• Format: Single leaf (two-sided)
• Medium: Wood engraving
• Language: English
Authenticity
This is an original 1883 Frank Leslie engraved leaf, not a reproduction.
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