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Curious Piece of Anticquity [sic] on the Crucifixtion [sic] of our Saviour and the Two Thieves

The earliest example of "Curious Piece" we have been able to identify was printed c.1765, "by W. Bailey, at No 28, Great Tower-street, London" (ESTC Citation No. T34510); we suspect that this present example was printed in the United States in the 1790s, around the same time as the 1793 Samuel Sower printing (ESTC Citation No. W26372). We have, however, been unable to identify another copy of the present printing.

There is an "Explanation" of the design at the foot: "The initials, INRI, at the head of the piece, is expressive of the Superscription of Pilate--Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews:--The middle column, by reading from the top down is Christ's exclamation--that on the right, the petition of the penitent thief, and the derision of the other, on the left."

United States: Gazette Office, Prin. 1790s. A rather incredible (and incredibly scarce) example of type design, resulting in a religious acrostic that can be read from left to right and from top to bottom, and utilizing type ornaments to create three crosses.

"Curious Piece" was popular through the 19th century in the United States through prints and samplers.

Printed quarter sheet measuring approx. 12.5" by 7.5", verso blank. Accompanied by a modern transcription of a later (1858) example. Fair to good. Toned with short tears, stains and water staining. Letter folds, dust soiling.

Price: $375.00

Item #21000726