Artwork
Summer Scenes in New York Harbor
Summer Scenes in New York Harbor is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Charles Parsons. It dates from 1869 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:Text at bottom on stone: Parsons & Atwater, Del. / Entered according to Act of Congress AD.1869 by Currier & Ives, in the clerks office of the District Court of the United States for the Southern District of New York / Lith. by Currier & / Summer Scenes in New York Harbor. / New York Published by Currier & Ives,152 Nassau Street.
About this work
Overview
Charles Parsons' 1869 hand-colored lithograph, Summer Scenes in New York Harbor, depicts a vibrant, bustling maritime scene in the New York Harbor during the late 19th century.
Subject & Meaning
The print showcases a diverse array of ships, including tall sailing vessels and steamers, alongside rowboats with figures in brightly colored attire.
The print showcases a diverse array of ships, including tall sailing vessels and steamers, alongside rowboats with figures in brightly colored attire. The meticulous labeling of specific ships (e.g., Hamburg Steam Ship, U.S. Steam Frigate) at the bottom of the work emphasizes the representation of actual, identifiable entities, characteristic of 19th-century prints aiming to document real locations.
Technique & Style
Executed as a hand-colored lithograph on wove paper, the piece exhibits soft, light clouds and calm water, with reflections of the vessels. The contrast between the detailed, labeled ships and the serene atmosphere underscores the blend of documentary precision and aesthetic appeal.
History & Provenance
Created in 1869 by Charles Parsons, specific details regarding the work's provenance and historical context beyond its creation date are not provided.
Context
Summer Scenes in New York Harbor reflects the transitional maritime era of the late 19th century, capturing the coexistence of sailing and steam-powered vessels. The work aligns with the contemporary interest in documenting urban and industrial growth through art.
Legacy
The legacy of Summer Scenes in New York Harbor is not explicitly outlined in the provided information, though it contributes to the visual record of New York Harbor's historical development and the artistic practices of its time.
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