I know this will gain me enemies on this board but I know exactly what you mean. Although American, the first thing to come to mind are LC Smiths....truly the most cartoonish pieces of workmanship I can recall. Sarasquetas of Spain have their very own cartoon style as well.
I think it was stylistically acceptable at the time. High quality etchings and plates abounded in these eras as did taxidermy so this is a case of knowingly engraving "ugly" things intentionally.
For a counter-example, look at old WC Scott guns where the engraved animals seem alive, or for hat matter any drilling looks pretty much correct.
The problem was bad art was acceptable by many people.
Last edited by Rookhawk; 09/06/11 11:15 PM.
