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British Institution Exhibition - "The First Impression" - painted by H. Selous, 1850. Creator: Smyth. British Institution Exhibition - "The First Impression" - painted by H. Selous, 1850. Creator: Smyth
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British Institution Exhibition - "The First Impression" - painted by H. Selous, 1850. Creator: Smyth. British Institution Exhibition - "The First Impression" - painted by H. Selous, 1850. Creator: Smyth
British Institution Exhibition - "The First Impression" - painted by H. Selous, 1850. Engraving of a painting in a London exhibition:.one of Mr. Selous's contributions to the collection, which he terms, in the catalogue, "The First Impression", and appends these words: "Guttenberg shewing to his wife his first experiment in printing from moveable types; supposed to have been the Bible, printed in 1450-60."...The subject is an extremely interesting one; yet this commemoration prompts painful reflection. Guttenberg, it will be recollected, experienced the hard fate that all great Inventors have had to endure from the misconceptions and ingratitude of mankind. Posterity has endeavoured in some degree to make amends for this ingratitude: monuments have been raised to his memory, and pictures painted and engraved to celebrate his genius'. From "Illustrated London News", 1850
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Media ID 36197914
© The Print Collector/Heritage Images
Craftsman Henry Courtney Selous Inventor Johannes Gutenberg Pictures Printer Printing Press Smyth Wives Moveable Type
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This engraving, titled "The First Impression," was created by the renowned British artist H. Selous in 1850 for the British Institution Exhibition. The painting depicts a poignant moment in history as Johannes Gutenberg, the inventor of the printing press, shares his groundbreaking discovery with his wife. The scene is set in the 15th century, with Gutenberg holding up a sheet of paper inscribed with moveable types, believed to be the Bible, which he had printed between 1450 and 1460. The image, skillfully captured by the creator Smyth, is an intriguing representation of a pivotal moment in human history. The invention of the printing press revolutionized the way knowledge was disseminated, leading to the spread of literacy and the democratization of information. Yet, as the caption from the Illustrated London News of 1850 notes, Gutenberg's contributions were initially met with misconceptions and ingratitude. Despite the initial resistance, Gutenberg's genius has been celebrated throughout history. Monuments have been erected in his honor, and countless paintings and engravings, like this one, have immortalized his legacy. The image serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of innovation and the importance of recognizing and appreciating the pioneers who shape our world.
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