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This are two chromolithographs of James Ludovic Lindsay, the 26th Earl of Crawford, who was Scottish scientist and politician. The images are caricatures.
The lithographs were created for Vanity Fair by Sir Leslie Ward, who signed his works as "Spy".
One lithograph is called "Astronomy", dated May 11, 1878. The background on Lord Lindsay is printed on the back. Printed by Vincent Brooks Day & Son. Lith.
Another one is called "The Transit of Venus", created for Vanity Fair supplement by Hentchel-Colourtype, London. Probably a bit younger as Lord Lindsey depicted on it looks older. Found a very detailed description of this piece here: https://www.ebay.com/itm/404637999855?_skw=Astronomy+Spy+Vanity+Fair+Lindsay&itmmeta=01JS79DSKB2XQC4GZB4X5DZ5DB&hash=item5e364de2ef:g:V0UAAOSwEKtmFPbN&itmprp=enc%3AAQAKAAAA4FkggFvd1GGDu0w3yXCmi1cPLA63qFwCHyOp9NPbQMLsefEvHMgTUWEO6BTnYxW50IgpnKyDXNcrUTopCY1A4ihkKcy%2FX7phdhfTquvsGSPlPDiIVFVWvCCvUX%2BJ9txLOtXGKqclqBIpozxqCBjtUCXi%2B22B%2Bk5zgLGCt2%2FHzz61bMBtznJ6B4UVoKSml554tJAB3irtaNQ%2Fjw705%2Bq0OqV3At%2FipaKGx5yBgSzg4Bswg9iqvIVw5I0SelIhx1njZohZ80cc4TIAts7he6LhAOpXzlMENH9GSEJ08jKaeSd1%7Ctkp%3ABk9SR-yZt-nJZQ
It says 1908.
The condition is good, some minor scratches on the frames.
Would like to know if it is better to sell them together or separately, if possible.
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Two Vanity Fair Chromolithographs
Two Vanity Fair Chromolithographs – “Astronomy” (1878) & “The Transit of Venus” (c.1908)
Artist: Sir Leslie Ward (“Spy”)
Subject: James Ludovic Lindsay, 26th Earl of Crawford
Medium: Chromolithograph
Printer:
Size:
Condition: Good; some light frame wear but no major print defects visible
Provenance: Thrift store purchase
Price Paid: 14 CAD for both
Estimated Value (2024 Market):
Historical Significance:
These Vanity Fair caricatures represent James Ludovic Lindsay, a notable 19th-century Scottish nobleman and astronomer. "Spy" was a premier caricaturist for Vanity Fair, and his lithographs remain collectible today. The inclusion of both prints—especially from two different decades—makes them an intriguing micro-collection illustrating Lindsay’s progression in age and status. The print “The Transit of Venus” alludes to Lindsay’s major contributions to astronomy.
Recommendation:
While both works could be sold individually, selling them as a set will likely appeal more to collectors of Vanity Fair caricatures or those interested in scientific history, thus increasing the perceived value. Retaining the original frames may also add charm, though some buyers prefer to reframe them to suit personal décor.
Professional Appraisal:
Not strictly required unless you plan to insure the pieces or resell them through a formal gallery. However, a written appraisal from a certified appraiser (especially one familiar with ephemera or historical caricature art) could help if listing with auction houses like Bonhams or Heritage.