Gustavus Sohon, Crossing the Hellgate River in Winter, Montana, 1856, Lithograph

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Title: Crossing the Hellgate River, January 6th, 1854 - Historic Lithograph : This lithograph, "Crossing the Hellgate River, January 6th, … Read more Title: Crossing the Hellgate River, January 6th, 1854 - Historic Lithograph : This lithograph, "Crossing the Hellgate River, January 6th, 1854," captures a moment of adventure and perseverance during mid-19th-century exploration in the American West. The scene depicts a group of travelers and their pack animals navigating the icy waters of the Hellgate River, surrounded by a winter landscape of barren trees and snow-covered terrain. The artwork is part of the Pacific Railroad Survey reports, General Report – Plate LXV, published in 1856. Created by Gustavus Sohon, a skilled artist and explorer, and lithographed by Sarony, Major & Knapp, it vividly illustrates the challenges faced by survey teams as they sought to chart the best routes for the transcontinental railroad. The composition balances human determination with the rugged beauty of nature. The frozen river, reflective and treacherous, dominates the center, while trees and scattered rocks add depth to the image. The detail in the horses, figures, and surrounding landscape is a testament to Sohon’s artistry and the precision of 19th-century lithographic techniques. The Hellgate River is the historical name for what is now part of the Clark Fork River in western Montana. It flows through the Hellgate Canyon, just east of the city of Missoula. The river and canyon were named "Hellgate" by early French trappers due to the area's history of being a site of conflict between Native American tribes. The Clark Fork River is a major waterway in Montana, known for its scenic beauty and significance in the region's history, including during the westward expansion and exploration of the United States. Hellgate Canyon remains a prominent feature near Missoula, often associated with the dramatic landscapes of the Rocky Mountains. Condition: Very good, with light foxing on the margins. The image remains sharp and well-preserved, with no significant blemishes. Framing Tip: Highlight the wintery tones with a white or light gray matte and a classic wooden frame. A simple, elegant presentation will emphasize the lithograph’s historical significance and artistic detail, making it a standout piece in any collection of Western Americana or exploration-themed art. See less