Rare Pair of Antique Etchings "Pied Piper" - R.W. Macbeth (Signed & Dedicated to J.W. North)

For sale is a stunning, museum-quality pair of original 19th-century etchings. What makes this specific pair exceptionally rare and highly collectable is the convergence of THREE renowned Victorian artists on a single piece.

​The scenes from "The Pied Piper of Hamelin" were originally painted by George John Pinwell. They were masterfully etched by the famous Scottish artist Robert William Macbeth (A.R.A.). Finally, the etching features a personal, handwritten pencil dedication from Macbeth to his close friend and fellow esteemed painter, John William North (J.W. North).

​1. The Pied Piper with Rats

​Published: 1st September 1884 by Robert Dunthorne, London.

​Condition: Good antique condition with no damage to the engraving.

​Signature/Dedication: Clearly signed and dedicated in pencil to the bottom right corner: "To J.W. North July 19 88 Robert W Macbeth".

​2. The Pied Piper with Children

​Published: 1st December 1883 by Robert Dunthorne, London.

​Condition: Overall good antique condition, however, please note there is a visible closed tear / stain mark on the right-hand side edge (please see close-up photos for exact details).

​Signature: Signed in the margin by R.W. Macbeth.

​Framing & Dimensions:

Both pieces are presented in beautiful, matching gilded frames with mounts, professionally framed by the Millwheel Gallery in Porlock, Somerset (stamped on the back).

​Frame dimensions for both: 29 5/8" wide x 21 3/8" high.

​Full provenance and detail notes are attached to the rear of the frames.

​Delivery & Shipping Terms (Please Read Carefully):

​Collection: Highly preferred due to the size and fragile nature of the glass.

​Personal Delivery: I can personally deliver the items within a 100 km radius of Donegal, strictly subject to prior payment via bank transfer.

​Postage (An Post): I can post the items further afield via An Post, but please be aware that due to the large glass panels, shipping is strictly at the buyer's own risk. I will pack them as securely as humanly possible, but I do not accept returns or offer refunds for any damage sustained in transit.

​Selling as a pair. Price is €350 (O.N.O. - Or Nearest Offer).

Historical Research & Rarity Note:

I have corresponded directly with the archives of the Royal Academy of Arts and the National Galleries of Scotland regarding these specific etchings. Their records confirm the exhibition history of this series. Notably, the archivists confirmed that they hold no similar dedicated "presentation copies" between R.W. Macbeth and J.W. North in their national collections. This underscores the extreme rarity of this surviving pair. Copies of this official correspondence can be provided to serious buyers upon request.