An Ancient Custom by Edwin Long Original Art Study
It is remarkably fragile , and dated 1876. Edwin Longsden exhibited the finished work in 1877 at the Royal Academy. I am both fascinated and bewildered that after extensive research over the past decade I still have not been able to find any black and white copies (etchings/engravings) of this particular painting anywhere on the globe. I was directed to find out if your company would be able to explain this item that I have stored and needs some minor restoration and preservation. I am fully convinced it is the only one in circulation and believe it should be part of a private collection. There is also the possibility that it is a black and white pen and ink study of the painting that was completed in 1876, as it is quite small : 10.5 inches tall and 15 inches wide. It is hard to determine what type of paper it is on and has been attached to a backing that is a different material. Possibly rag, rice, or India paper. I am certain it needs to be reviewed in person, but my hope is from these photos I can get some feedback. Thank you for any assistance with this I greatly appreciate it!
10.5” x 15”
Other
Yes
Hello,
The drawing appears to be a preparatory study for Long’s painting An Ancient Custom, which was completed in 1876 and exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1877. The work measures 10.5 x 15 inches and bears the signature “Edwin Long 1876.” Based on the visual evidence, it is not a printed reproduction, and there is strong reason to believe it is either a preliminary sketch or studio study created by Long before executing the final painting. The technique, facial detailing, and depth of shading indicate a hand-rendered work rather than a mass-produced engraving or lithograph.
Given the lack of known copies and the possible uniqueness of this piece, it holds considerable value as a preparatory study by an academically trained British painter of the Victorian era. However, the current condition—particularly the fragility, paper loss, and backing issues—limits its immediate market potential. Should attribution be verified by a specialist and minimal restoration be completed professionally, this drawing could be valued in the range of $3,000 to $6,000 USD, with upward potential if confirmed as a unique original by Long.
