Artwork

Landing of the American Forces under Genl. Scott: At Vera Cruz March 9th 1847

Landing of the American Forces under Genl. Scott: At Vera Cruz March 9th 1847 is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Nathaniel Currier. It dates from 1847 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:lower right in graphite by unknown hand: 50- Text at bottom of stone: Lith. & Pub. by N. Currier / Entered according to Act of Congress in the year 1847 by N. Currier, in the Clerks office of the District Court of the Southern District of N.Y. / 152 Nassau St. Cor. of Spruce N.Y. / Landing of the American Forces under Genl. Scott / At Vera Cruz March 9th 1847 / The Colors of the United States were triumphantly planted ashore, in full view of the City and Castle. And under the distant fire of both._ The whole army reached the shore in fine style without accident or loss. / 459.

About this work

The soldiers carry flags and rifles, and a few stand tall in the boats like they’re leading the way.

This picture shows soldiers in small boats landing on a beach. Behind them, big ships float in the water, with smoke rising in the distance. The soldiers carry flags and rifles, and a few stand tall in the boats like they’re leading the way.

The title at the bottom says this happened in 1847 at Vera Cruz. The artist used hand-colored lines to make it look dramatic, with lots of movement and detail.

Want to know more? Look up lithography to see how this kind of print was made.

Overview

Created in 1847 by Nathaniel Currier, 'Landing of the American Forces under Genl. Scott: At Vera Cruz March 9th 1847' is a hand-colored lithograph on wove paper depicting a pivotal moment in the Mexican-American War.

Subject & Meaning

The print illustrates the arrival of American troops led by General Scott at Vera Cruz on March 9, 1847. Soldiers in small boats, armed with rifles and flags, approach the shore, while larger ships and distant smoke suggest the broader military context.

Technique & Style

The lithograph features hand-colored lines, enhancing the dramatic effect with vibrant details and conveying a sense of movement. The artistic approach emphasizes clarity and realism, typical of mid-19th-century lithographic prints.

History & Provenance

Produced in the same year as the event it depicts, the lithograph was likely intended for contemporary audiences, serving as a visual record of the war. Specific provenance details are not provided.

Context

This work reflects the broader practice of 19th-century artists creating timely, event-driven prints for public consumption, catering to interest in current events and military engagements.

Legacy

While not individually renowned, the print contributes to the historical visual archive of the Mexican-American War, offering insights into how such events were represented and consumed by the public at the time.