Artwork

The City of Washington: Bird's-Eye View from the Potomac—Looking North

The City of Washington: Bird's-Eye View from the Potomac—Looking North is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Currier and Ives. It dates from 1892 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:text at bottom on stone: New York, Published by Currier & Ives, 115 Nassau St. / Copyright 1892. By Currier & Ives, N.Y / National Observatory / (North West Div.) / Farragut Sq. / Rawlins' Square / Scott Place. / Louise Home / Arlington House / Corcoran Art Gallery / War, Navy & State Bldg. / (South West Div.) / McPherson Space / Department of Justice / Lafayette Sq. / Foundry M. E. Ch. / Executive Mansion (White House.) / U.S. Treasury / The President's Grounds / Columbian University / 14 St. Circle / Ebbitt House / Riggs House / Willards Hotel / Potomac River / Howard University / Liberty Sq. / K St. Market / U.S. Patent Office / Pension Bureau / Census Bureau / Washington Monument / Massachusetts Av. / U.S. Post Office / The Mall / Bureau of Engraving & Printing / City Hall Park. / Metropolitan Hotel. / Washington Market / Agricultural Dpt. / Government Printing Office / City Hall / National Hotel / Smithsonian Institute / Pennsylvania Av. / B.&.P.R.R. Depot / National Museum / Long Bridge / B.&.O.R.R. Depot / Botanical Garden / Jefferson School / The Capitol / Stanton Sq. / (South East Div.) / (North East Div.) / Lincoln Sq. / Seward Sq. / U.S. Arsenal / U.S. Marine Barracks / Kendall Green / Navy Yard / East Branch of the Potomac / The City of Washington. / Birds-Eye View from the Potomac—Looking North

About this work

Overview

The City of Washington: Bird's-Eye View from the Potomac, Looking North is a color lithograph on wove paper, produced by Currier and Ives in 1892. It depicts a panoramic view of Washington, D.C. from the Potomac River, oriented northward.

Subject & Meaning

The print showcases the city's layout, highlighting its architectural, infrastructural, and natural elements. Prominent landmarks like the Washington Monument are visible, emphasizing the city's historical and political significance.

Technique & Style

Executed in a realistic style, the lithograph features meticulous detail and vibrant coloring, lending the scene a sense of vitality. While stylistically distinct, its attention to light and activity might draw comparisons to Impressionist themes.

History & Provenance

Created in 1892 by the prolific firm Currier and Ives, the lithograph is now part of the National Gallery of Art's collection in Washington, D.C.

Context

This bird's-eye view reflects the late 19th-century interest in urban documentation and growth, capturing Washington, D.C. during a period of expansion and national pride.

Legacy

As a detailed record of Washington, D.C.'s late 19th-century appearance, the lithograph serves as a valuable historical resource, illustrating the city's development and architectural heritage.