Lot 131
  • 131

[New York]

Estimate
4,000 - 6,000 USD
bidding is closed

Description

  • New York. New York: Edward J. H. Tamsen, 1880
  • paper, ink
Color lithograph (24 x 34 in.; 610 x 864 mm), by George Schlegel after John Bachmann. 

Nearly imperceptible dampstain to upper left corner, wrinkle to bottom margin, not affecting image. In a fine gold leaf frame.

Catalogue Note

Unusually, this bird's eye view depicts the city at sunset and is color lithographed to perfection by Schlegel (best known for his cigar box labels), with the sky varying shades of blue and pink. This print is not to be confused with a similar, but much smaller view by Schlegel, which depicts the city from the more usual due south (Deak 836). The vast growth and expansion of the city, which alarmed many New Yorkers, is a focus of celebration in Bachmann's images. He shows the rivers clogged with ships and barges, the buildings massing in the metropolis, and the immigrants crowding in the streets. Bachmann's views are a true celebration of New York.