Sarony, Major & Knapp, Kettle Falls on the Columbia River in Washington State, 1856, Lithograph on Paper

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Title: Tinted Lithograph of Kettle Falls on the Columbia River, 1856 : This stunning lithograph, "Kettle Falls, Columbia River," captures … Read more Title: Tinted Lithograph of Kettle Falls on the Columbia River, 1856 : This stunning lithograph, "Kettle Falls, Columbia River," captures the raw power and striking geology of one of the Columbia River’s most iconic features. Created by Stanley and lithographed by the prestigious Sarony, Major & Knapp of New York, this piece was published as General Report – Plate XLVII in the Pacific Railroad Exploration Survey reports of 1856. The lithograph is a vivid example of the artistic documentation of natural landmarks encountered during these mid-19th-century exploratory expeditions. The scene depicts turbulent waters cascading over fractured rock formations, with indigenous figures in the foreground. These individuals are engaged in fishing, a nod to the historical importance of Kettle Falls as a gathering and fishing site for Native American tribes. The combination of natural detail, human activity, and dynamic composition reflects the lithographer’s ability to blend artistic expression with scientific observation. This tinted lithograph employs skillful shading and color washes to convey the power of the river and the ruggedness of the surrounding landscape. The detailed rendering of the rocks and water adds depth and texture, making the scene both visually dramatic and historically significant. Additional info: Kettle Falls is near Fort Colville. Historically,
Condition: Very good, with slight age-related foxing on the margins. The image remains clear and vibrant. See less