Mark:
I'll cast my vote for the stuff done in the UK in the late 19th Century/early 20th. If you're talking wildlife only, the British stuff was a bit stylized, but overall decent. American animals were mostly so poorly done as to be laughable. But some of America's immigrant engravers did well -- although their style was mostly Teutonic.

The current trend toward Bulino photo-realistic engraving is impressive at first, then one soon begins to realise that as precise as it may be, it simply amounts to a photo on your gun. I prefer art. And that includes interpretation by the artist -- something you know much about.

As for scroll and such, I'll still take the classic stuff from 1860 through 1920. Those engravers knew classic style, balance, proportion... and taste.

Still, one must always keep in mind that much engraving in the British trade was done by young men who simply learned from the master at the next bench.

Best, Kensal

PS: The Parker stock you did kicks bloody butt!!