American Historical
Print Collectors Society

Fanny Palmer was one of Currier & Ives’ most important and prolific artists — and her oeuvre of nearly 300 prints gives the impression of artistic invincibility. But in the small book Currier & Ives (1950), Frederic A. Conningham notes: “The only type of work she did not do was the horse racing print. According Read More

The American Antiquarian Society has lots of examples of fully lithographed books—made with both lithographic images and text—including titles by Bret Harte, children’s picture books, and inexpensive comic text. One great example in AAS’s collection is titled Wreck-Elections of a Busy Life and was published in Hartford, Connecticut, in 1867. The entire volume is a humorous Read More

We recently shared some dog-focused prints, so now it’s only fair to shine the spotlight on our feline friends. These American historical prints are arranged chronologically and cover a range of cat cuteness and mischievousness. Peter Maverick (lithographer), [Two kittens] [Lithograph, ca. 1830]. Courtesy of the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.   Pendelton’s Lithography. [Three Read More

For those in need of temporary diversion, we share a selection of American historical prints depicting dogs. Arranged chronologically, these prints range from the sentimental to the absurd, and we hope they provide a pleasant distraction during troubling times. Since more of us are now staying home and working remotely, it’s also a good reminder Read More

By James S. Brust When I purchased the chromolithograph in Figure 1, I was more interested in acquiring the original period frame than the print itself, which was obviously faded and toned. All print collectors have heard stories of opening a frame and finding another, more valuable print behind the one showing through the glass. Read More