NEW PRINTS.
The Afternoon Nap. Drawn on Stone by W. SHARP, from a Drawing by T. F. WauGwoon, after the original Painting by
F. P. STEPHANOFF.
This is the most elaborate, as it is one of the finest and most successful specimens of lithography that has appeared ; and it satisfactorily proves the capability of the art, and the efficiency of the artist, to the attainment of those] excellences which have been hitherto considered as confined exclusively to line engraving. The design is pleasing and popular. A young girl is stealing an interview with her lover, while her old father is enjoying his " afternoon nap." Mr. STEPHANOFP has treated the sub- ject naturally (though the girl might have been prettier), and the corn. position is full and well studied. The print is free from the defects so frequently complained of in li- thography. It is not only forcible and clear, but possesses sharpness and brilliancy ; combining the rich softness of lithography with the firmness and decision of line engraving. Every part appears to have been worked with the greatest care ; all the numerous details are well made out, with a variety of tone and texture, while the entire effect is harmonious and in perfect keeping. Its success in these respects is especially admirable. The background, too, is particularly remarkable for a quiet richness of tone, and a pictorial style of treatment. This beautiful print is not merely the largest, but by far the best and most complete of Mr. SHARP'S productions, and evinces the great pro- gress that he has made of late. He has now, indeed, proved himself a successful rival of Mr. LANE, and greatly surpasses Mr. FAIRLAND. We have not seen any new production of Mr. SHARP'S for a consider- able time, but this drawing shows that he has not been idle. A few such works as this would establish the claims of lithography to that dis- tinction as a branch of fine art, which, if it has not yet attained, has not been through any deficiency of talent in those who have availed themselves of its advantages. We must not omit to compliment Mr. HULLMANDEL upon his share in producing this admirable specimen of lithography ; it reflects the highest credit on his skill as the printer, upon whom so much of the success of a lithographic drawing depends.
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