Windsor Castle and Park
Currier & Ives, c. 1870
Currier & Ives, c. 1870
 |
Currier and Ives |
|
Windsor Castle was one of the favored residences of Queen Victoria,
being the closest castle to London. Its splendid park has
always been a popular attraction.Victorian print on wove paper,
published by Currier & Ives, New York, with their
address printed below the image. The lithography firm of Currier & Ives was founded in 1834 by Nathaniel Currier as N. Currier, Lithographer, and based in New York. In 1852, he brought his brother-in-law, James Merritt Ives, into the business and renamed the firm Currier & Ives five years later. They were extremely prolific and highly successful, producing almost 7,500 different separately issued art prints through the 19th century until 1907, aptly advertising themselves as "Print-makers to the American People." Their prints were issued in either small, medium and large folio, though some particularly popular images were issued in more than one size. Dozens of American artists in the mid 19th century painted primarily for lithographic reproduction by Currier & Ives and other firms. To please a broad audience, the firm presented a warmly positive vision of America, frequently sentimental, and sometimes with a touch of humor. Currier & Ives prints generally portrayed the American landscape, scenery and landmarks, including the westward expansion, as well as daily life in both urban and rural settings. Their sporting and maritime subjects were particularly popular. These prints are now highly collectible as records of American history, as fine works of American art, and for their decorative appeal. Condition generally good with the usual expected toning, wear, light soiling, soft creases. Colors generally fresh. Discolored, particularly verso. Printed below image "Published by Currier & Ives *** 152, Nassau St. New York." and titled "Windsor Castle And Park." Reference: Bonfante-Warren, Alexandra. Currier & Ives: Portraits of a Nation. New York: Friedman/Fairfax, 1998. pp. 9, 23-41. |