1870 Currier & Ives "Spring" Portrait Handcolored Lithograph

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"Spring", an example of one of the four seasons' lithographs created in 1870 by the Currier & Ives studio of … Read more "Spring", an example of one of the four seasons' lithographs created in 1870 by the Currier & Ives studio of printmakers and watercolorists.

The romantic Victorian era portrait depicts a lovely young woman adorned with an abundant wreath of multicolored flowers, with additional blossoms gathered across her bodice. Her delicate features, elaborate hairstyle, floral jewelry, and soft pastel palette capture the sentimental beauty of the period. Presented in an attractive, period wooden frame with substantial stepped profile and finished in a dark mahogany hue. Ready to hang from loop and wire en verso.

Our research appears to authenticate this piece as an original (not reproduction) print dating to 1870. The image size exactly matches the recorded size for original issue of this subject, the inscription below the image, "Entered according to Act of Congress in the year 1870 by Currier & Ives in the Office of the Librarian of Congress at Washington", "Spring.", and "Published by Currier & Ives, 118 Nassau St. New York" all are correct for the period, the accompanying frame being from that era, as well as our personal knowledge of the previous owner/collector and provenance, all strongly indicate this to be an authentic Currier & Ives creation.

Using lithographic stones made of Bavarian limestone, Currier & Ives artists drew the images directly onto the porous stone surface which was then treated with gum arabic and acid, moistened, and inked with black ink. Paper was applied to the stone and put under pressure to transfer the ink from stone to paper. After "pulling" the paper from the stone, artists (primarily women) added watercolor to the images, creating a vibrant and lovely work that could be enjoyed by people of more moderate means -- art for all.

Currier & Ives, through their hand-colored lithography process, ushered in the transition from traditional Victorian art, often used to teach a moral tenet, to the Aesthetic Movement of "art for art's sake".

Dimensions: overall, 17.75"w x 2"d x 21.75"h.

Condition: Very good antique condition with vibrant coloration; some paper toning with 1 tiny (1/16"dia) dark spot, and minor wear to frame finish. Paper on back of frame is torn, as shown, but cannot be seen when hung. All in all, in remarkable condition indicating it was well-loved and well cared for in it's 150+ years of enjoyment.

Free local pickup; otherwise carefully packed and shipped via economical ground delivery. See less