On the Meadows, 1800s, Paper

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On the meadows, orange county, new york – whittredge, american landscape c1869 this refined american landscape print titled “on the … Read more On the meadows, orange county, new york – whittredge, american landscape c1869 this refined american landscape print titled “on the meadows, orange co. N.y.” is based on a painting by the celebrated hudson river school artist worthington whittredge and was published in new york in 1869 as part of the prestigious series gallery of landscape painters – american scenery. The image captures a tranquil pastoral scene in orange county, new york, with grazing cattle reflected in still water beneath a soft, atmospheric sky, embodying the idealized vision of the american countryside that defined mid-19th-century landscape art. Whittredge was one of the most important american landscape painters of his generation, closely associated with the hudson river school and admired for his sensitive handling of light, space, and mood. His work bridges the romanticism of earlier american landscape painting with a quieter, more contemplative realism. This print translates those qualities with great fidelity, preserving the calm balance and tonal subtlety of the original painting. The engraving was executed by c. Rost using the steel engraving process, a medium that reached its highest level of refinement in the second half of the 19th century. While early steel engravings were often small and illustrative, publishers such as william pate & co. Elevated the technique to produce larger, more ambitious compositions. The american scenery portfolio is widely regarded as one of the finest achievements of this tradition, combining leading american artists with highly skilled engravers to create prints of exceptional quality and visual depth. The result is a richly detailed image with crisp line work, smooth tonal transitions, and a strong decorative presence. Prints from this series are sought after by collectors of american art, hudson river school material, and 19th-century topographical and landscape engravings, and they also appeal strongly to interior designers for their calm, horizontal compositions and historical resonance. Condition report good. The paper shows noticeable light wrinkling and gentle undulation across the upper half, consistent with age and historic handling. The engraved image itself remains clear and well-preserved. The lower inscription area shows softening and fading of the printed text, making parts of the title and publication line less distinct. Full margins present. Overall toning consistent with a mid-19th-century steel engraving, with no major tears or losses. Framing tips this print presents beautifully in a natural wood or walnut frame with a soft off-white or warm grey mat. A slightly wider mat enhances the sense of depth and emphasizes the engraving’s delicate tonal gradations. Museum glass is recommended to protect the surface and maintain clarity. Technique: steel engraving maker: c. Rost after worthington whittredge, united states, published new york 1869 See less