"New Orleans - The Crescent City - Lake Pontchartrain in the Distance"

A large fold-out bird's eye view of New Orleans describing its precarious situation between the Gulf and Lake. This original wood engraving was published in December 13, 1884 as a supplement to Harper's Weekly, the widely read 19th century periodical. The newspaper kept readers up to date with sensationally worded accounts of natural disasters, technological advances, politics, explorations and discoveries as well as home and society matters. The magazine employed illustrators who would travel and sketch any major event. These sketches were then translated onto wood blocks and published. The large bird's eye views of American cities are particularly desirable as few have survived the years in good condition. The view of New Orleans was drawn by Charles Graham (1852-1911) a staff artist for Harper's Weekly between 1877 and 1892. On assignments for Harper's, Graham traveled through the American West, and toured the post-civil War South creating drawings that were published in a series of articles on the "New South."

Many New Orleans landmarks are detailed here including the Exposition Buildings and Grounds, Shot Tower, Lee Monument, Lafayette Square, St. Charles Hotel, Hotel Royal, Opera House, Jackson Square and Cathedral and French Market as well as a vibrant and bustling industrial waterfront.

Hand colored wood engraving, folds as issued.
22 1/2 x 30 3/4 inches, sheet size, matted.
Excellent condition.