|
|
You are viewing
an original 1861 Civil War political cartoon featuring President
Abraham Lincoln. It is from the April 13, 1861 edition of
Harper's Weekly, the most popular illustrated newspaper of the day.
Note that this is not a reprint, and I absolutely guarantee its
authenticity. This leaf is over 130 years old, and the date
April 13, 1861 is clearly marked on the front of print. On the day
this leaf was printed, Abraham Lincoln was president of the United
States, Southern States had seceded from the Union, and the
opening shots of the war had been heard around the world.
This is a rare
and highly collectible Lincoln piece. The image captures the state
of the Nation and of Lincoln at the start of the Civil War probably
better than any other. Lincoln and the Nation were ripped apart by
the secession of the southern states, and the question of how to
proceed was tearing the country apart. Lincoln was willing to
pay the price of a protracted and bloody war in order to preserve
the union, but it was not an easy decision. In this
illustration, he is discussing the quandary with Lady Liberty (known
as Columbia at the time). In the cartoon, Lincoln is asking
Columbia, "What Next"? Columbia is responding, "First Be Sure
You Are Right, Then Go Ahead". Wow, what a prophetic piece.
Lincoln was sure, and he was right, and because of his bold and
unwavering decisions, even in the face of bloody opposition, and
intense criticism, he did preserve the Union of the States. This
illustration can serve as a tribute to Lincoln's Wisdom, Courage,
and an unfailing dedication to the principal of the Union of the
States.
|
This is a rare illustration. Original period
pieces of Lincoln are becoming increasingly difficult to find, and
this is a particularly nice one. When you frame this leaf and
place it in your office or study, it can serve as your personal
tribute to the President, and his courage. It is interesting
to consider what a different place the world would be today if it
were not for the courage of this one man. This illustration is
one that you will not want to miss.
Unlike newsprint of this century, these older,
original pages do not yellow and fall apart. The reason is
that modern newspapers use an acid based process.
Remnant acid in the paper causes the paper to quickly yellow and
deteriorate. A different process was used in the
mid-1800's which yielded an exceptional quality paper that will last
for centuries. Special acid free mats should be used when you frame
this piece to ensure that it will last another 150 years. Acid
free mats are available at most better frame shops. If you
have any questions related to handling or framing this piece feel
free to email me. The print is approximately 11x16 inches.
I have been collecting Civil War Newspapers for over 10 years.
It is a fascinating hobby, and I find that these pieces really get
noticed when framed and displayed.
The leaf is in very good condition. It has the rich
sepia toning that you expect in original material from this
period. There are a few spots of light foxing, and a few finger
smudges in the margins. This will display nicely!
Don't, miss your chance to own an original and rare
piece of Lincoln History.
|
