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Havell Aquatint View of New York From the East River
Rare separately published view of New York City, painted and engraved by Robert Havell. The ships were drawn by J. Pringle.
Beginning in the second quarter of the 19th century, a significant number of printed views documenting the expansion of New York were issued, reflecting "the pride and satisfaction of its citizens in the growing mercantile prominence of their city." Robert Havell's views of the city provide a fine illustration of its dramatic growth in this time frame. Lower Manhattan was becoming increasingly commercial as residences and churches moved uptown. "The demand for images of buildings, civic events, and broad vistas made this an active period for printmakers of all degrees of competence. " (Metropolitan Museum of Art, Spring Bulletin, 1980, pp 28-29).
Robert Havell is best known for his aquatints of Audubon's Birds of America. He emigrated to New York in 1839. His view of New York from the East River and its companion view from the Hudson River, both published in 1844, are noted for the excellence of the aquatint and the rich hand-coloring.
Rarity
The Havell view is scarce on the market. This is the first example we have offered.
