Stuart, Gilbert [Washington. Engraved by Thomas B. Welch...]

After Gilbert Stuart (1755-1828).  [Washington. Engraved by Thomas B. Welch by Permission from the only original portrait by Gilbert Stuart in the Athenaeum Boston].  Philadelphia: George W. Childs, 1852.  22 ¾ x 18 (Image).   Stipple with line engraving by Thomas B. Welch (1814-1874). Early proof before title, letters and facsimile of Washington’s signature just below image  Signed in pencil by the engraver under the image right hand side.  Scattered small black spots (old ink?) in image lower left hand side.  Three tears into image repaired with archival tape.  Top right corner margin chipped not affecting image.  Some minor scuffing, soiling and light staining in margins and image.  Minuscule puncture in image upper right hand side filled and in-painted.  Remnants of old paper backing on verso.  Else, good condition.  Rare signed artist’s proof.  Baker: 351.  A large bust engraving taken after Gilbert Stuart’s unfinished 1796 painting of George Washington known as The Athenæum por