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Philadelphia from Camden. New York: Smith Brothers & Co., 1850. $13,500 |
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J. W. Hill, del. B.F. Smith, lith.
“Philadelphia from Camden.”
This magnificent tinted lithograph is the largest antique view of the city. As such, it is unusual to find it in such good condition. This impression has rare full margins and vibrant original coloring. The print provides a panoramic view of the Philadelphia waterfront from across the Delaware River with Camden quays in the foreground. The river is bustling with activity, including shuttles between the two cities. The perspectives are convincingly rendered and the detail is extraordinary. Philadelphia proper is rendered with such great detail that it is possible to date the composition of the print to before the July 9th, 1850 fire on Vine Street.
The Smith brothers achieved business success in mining, real estate and livestock and also published more than 25 large folio views of American cities. Their prints are among the most sought after by collectors.
Ref: Reps (Views…) #3578. Peters (American Views) p, 370, Masternbaum, p. 68. This lithograph is the cover illustration of Pennsylvania Prints by O’Connor and Yeager.
Tinted lithograph. 27 x 40 ½ inches, sheet. Framed to museum specifications.
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