Arthur Mayger Hind

Arthur Mayger Hind (1880–1957) stands as a pivotal figure in the field of art history, particularly for his groundbreaking work on old master prints. His career, primarily spent as Keeper of the Department of Prints and Drawings at the British Museum until his retirement in 1945, was characterized by meticulous scholarship and a profound dedication to cataloguing and contextualizing these often-overlooked artworks. Hind’s approach was not merely descriptive; he sought to understand the technical processes, historical development, and artistic significance of prints.

His tenure at the British Museum placed him at the epicenter of print collection and study, allowing him to develop an unparalleled expertise that would define his legacy. He navigated the complexities of print attribution, dating, and connoisseurship with a rigor that became the benchmark for future generations of scholars. His work provided a crucial framework for understanding the evolution of printmaking as a distinct and vital artistic medium.

Hind's published works are cornerstones of print history scholarship. His 1908 book, 'A [Short] History of Engraving and Etching,' is widely regarded as a seminal text. Described by a later curator as 'perhaps the most influential general guide ever written to the history of printmaking,' it offered a comprehensive and accessible overview of the techniques and artists that shaped the medium.

This work was instrumental in elevating the study of prints from a niche interest to a recognized academic discipline. Following this, his 'An Introduction to a History of Woodcut' (1935) further solidified his reputation, providing essential insights into another fundamental printmaking technique. The enduring relevance of these books is evidenced by their continued reprinting by Dover Publications, a testament to their foundational importance and clarity.

They served as indispensable resources for students, collectors, and curators, shaping how printmaking was understood and appreciated.

Perhaps Hind's most enduring contribution is his multi-volume catalogue of Italian engravings in the British Museum. Initiated in 1910 and published in expanded form in 1948, this monumental undertaking represented years of painstaking research and connoisseurship. Cataloguing thousands of prints required an intimate knowledge of artistic styles, workshop practices, and the nuances of engraving techniques.

The resulting publication provided an authoritative and systematic reference, becoming indispensable for scholars worldwide. Many prints continue to be identified and discussed using the numbering system established by Hind, a clear indicator of its lasting impact. This catalogue not only documented the museum's holdings but also contributed significantly to the broader understanding of the Italian Renaissance and Baroque printmaking traditions, offering a detailed map of artistic production and dissemination.

Hind’s professional life coincided with a dynamic and often tumultuous period in the international art market. He, along with his predecessor Campbell Dodgson, was deeply involved in the major art sales of the first half of the 20th century. These sales, often involving the dispersal of vast aristocratic collections, particularly from Germany, created a 'heated atmosphere of rumour and anticipation.' Hind and his colleagues were keenly aware of the competitive landscape, with major institutions and private collectors from Berlin, Munich, and the United States vying for these significant works.

Their role extended beyond mere acquisition; it involved scholarly assessment, provenance research, and strategic decision-making to ensure that important prints entered public collections where they could be preserved and studied. This engagement provided Hind with invaluable insights into the circulation and valuation of old master prints, further informing his scholarly pursuits.

Arthur Mayger Hind's legacy is one of profound influence, establishing the rigorous methodologies and comprehensive scholarship that continue to guide the study of old master prints. His catalogues and historical surveys provided the essential scaffolding upon which subsequent research has been built. In an era where digital archives and global connectivity are transforming art historical research, Hind's foundational work remains critically relevant.

His dedication to detailed documentation and historical context serves as a vital reminder of the importance of deep, empirical study. The ongoing reprinting of his works underscores their timeless value, ensuring that his insights continue to inform and inspire new generations of art historians, curators, and collectors. Hind’s meticulous approach to printmaking has not only preserved a rich artistic heritage but has also expanded our understanding of artistic innovation and cultural exchange across centuries.