Fort Smith in Arkansas, 19th Century, Lithograph on Paper

Details

Description

Title: Fort Smith, Arkansas – Rare 19th Century Lithograph of Frontier History : This finely detailed lithograph showcases Fort Smith, … Read more Title: Fort Smith, Arkansas – Rare 19th Century Lithograph of Frontier History : This finely detailed lithograph showcases Fort Smith, Arkansas, as it appeared in the mid-19th century. Set along the banks of the Arkansas River, Fort Smith was a vital military outpost and trading hub, serving as a gateway to the western frontier. The print vividly captures the fort’s buildings, the grand American flag proudly flying, and a steamboat on the river, which underscores the region’s importance as a transportation and trade route during this period. The lithograph was created using a stone lithography technique, a process that enabled artists to produce highly detailed and lifelike prints. This artwork offers a glimpse into the growth of Fort Smith as a bustling town on the edge of the western frontier, with its mix of military, residential, and commercial structures set against the backdrop of rolling hills and the serene river. What makes this piece particularly intriguing is its historical significance. Fort Smith played a key role during westward expansion and was a pivotal site for military campaigns and Native American relations. The steamboat imagery also reflects the transformative impact of river transport on commerce and settlement.

Condition: Excellent preservation with minimal signs of age; light toning in margins and vibrant colors remain intact. Matting and See less