Views of Australia & Oceania · 19th century
€ 220
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Very good, with minimal age-related toning and no significant marks or blemishes. Edges are crisp, and the image remains vibrant.
This picturesque lithograph, "View on the Gila Below the Great Bend," captures a tranquil scene of life along the Gila River in the mid-19th century. Published as General Report – Plate VI in the Pacific Railroad Exploration Survey reports of 1856, this work is a blend of artistic elegance and documentary precision. It offers a window into the American West, with its untouched landscapes and the activities of those traversing these remote regions.
The scene is dominated by the river’s smooth curves, bordered by lush trees under a soft, atmospheric sky. In the foreground, figures interact with the water, while a covered wagon drawn by horses moves along the riverbank. The combination of natural beauty and human presence creates a harmonious composition, illustrating the integration of settlers into the wilderness.
Executed with tinted lithography, this print uses delicate washes of color to enhance the depth and serenity of the scene. The fine details of the trees, water, and distant mountains showcase the artist’s skill and the lithographer’s craftsmanship, making this piece a compelling historical and artistic artifact.
Additional Information: The Great Bend of the Gila is a significant geographic feature where the Gila River makes a large curve in southwestern Arizona, west of Phoenix. After the bend, the river continues eastward toward the Phoenix metropolitan area before merging with the Salt River near present-day Avondale. Historically, this region was an important route for indigenous peoples, early explorers, and settlers, including those traveling along the Butterfield Overland Mail route.
Condition: Very good, with minimal age-related toning and clean margins. The colors are well-preserved and vibrant.
Framing Tip: Enhance the lithograph’s natural beauty with a matte in light beige or soft green and pair it with a classic wooden frame. This piece will be a stunning addition to a study, gallery, or living room, evoking the quiet grandeur of the American frontier.
