The idea for writing a book on the Basire family of copper-plate engravers arose from an inheritance. My grandfather bequeathed to me personal artefacts, including engravings, sketch books and travelogues of James Basire (IV) (1822-1883). He had in turn inherited these from his great aunt, Mary Annie Basire, first wife of this James Basire.

On inheriting these objects, I was unable to find out much about them, so decided to research the topic myself. This book is a result of this research. It is not intended to be a family history. It is rather an academic history of copper-plate engraving and, latterly, lithography, in London from the 1720s to the 1860s. It is told from the perspective of the Basire family business, which benefited from a unique level of continuity through five generations, as well as a high profile as engravers at various times to the House of Commons, Oxford University Press, the Royal Society and the Society of Antiquaries of London.

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In early 2022, I published a follow-on book on the life and works of Charles Grignion (1721-1810), another London-based engraver. Grignion is particular interest because of his 60-year career and professional relations with many of the leading figures in contemporary culture, such as Gravelot, Francis Hayman, Hogarth, Horace Walpole, and the major London print- and booksellers.

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The e-book versions are viewed or downloaded free of charge, and links to other related resources can be found below.