Peter Winkworth’s print cabinets have, over the years, contained rare and noteworthy prints. Traditionally, collectors organize their prints in a cabinet of shallow drawers or in portfolios, rather than framing and displaying them. The prints are closely studied and compared, often with the aid of a magnifying glass. From this study, the collector becomes familiar with various print methods such as engraving, mezzotint or lithography, and develops a “visual memory” of the works. Mr. Winkworth’s knowledge and connoisseurship were key ingredients in amassing this outstanding print collection of more than 3,300 works.

Many of the prints are reproductive engravings or lithographs based on original compositions, usually watercolours or paintings. Included are landscapes and city view examples from almost every important Canadiana print set or single-sheet edition, created during the 18th and 19th centuries. See examples of these reproductive prints.

The Print Cabinet section of this exhibition features a selection of prints highlighting some lesser-known aspects of Canadiana prints, which are uniquely represented in the Peter Winkworth Collection, notably in the Canadian etchings and the early Canadian-made prints.