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This impressive, large-format engraved portrait of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow captures the revered poet in a contemplative and dignified pose, his expression thoughtful, surrounded by illustrations of scenes from his most celebrated works. Around Longfellow’s likeness are vignettes inspired by The Song of Hiawatha, The Village Blacksmith, The Wreck of the Hesperus, and Paul Revere’s Ride, each carefully rendered with a narrative depth that reflects Longfellow’s impact on American literature and culture. The ample size of the engraving allows these scenes to breathe, each vignette serving as a testament to the enduring resonance of Longfellow’s storytelling.
The engraving is signed in pencil by Longfellow at the lower center and by the artist, W. Edgar Marshall, in the lower right corner. Marshall, who began his artistic journey engraving watch-cases before honing his craft at the American Bank Note Company, studied painting in Europe and later returned to America to open a studio in New York. Known for his portraits of prominent Americans, Marshall applied his skill to this tribute to Longfellow, bringing both technical precision and a deep respect for the poet’s legacy.
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