Brooklyn Academy of Music

You are viewing an original 1861 illustration of the Grand Opening of the Brooklyn Academy of Music.  It is from an 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 140 years old, and the date is clearly marked on the front of the print. On the day this leaf was printed, Abraham Lincoln had been elected President of the United States, and the Civil War was in its opening chapter.

This is a rare and highly collectible illustration.  It pictures the grand opening of the historic Brooklyn Academy of Music.  The top illustration shows the exterior of the Academy.  People in period dress are shown walking in front of the building, and several horse-drawn carriages are pictured in the street. The lower image is captioned, "The Brooklyn Academy of Music- Interior, Opening Concert on Tuesday, January 15, 1861".  The image shows the grand interior of the building.  The auditorium is packed with a standing room only crowd.  It looks like the concert is just getting underway.  Making this an even more important historical piece is the story on the reverse side of the leaf, which presents details of the Academy.  Several of the larger donors are mentioned in the story, as well as details of the facility.  

This leaf would make the ultimate gift for any patron of the arts, particularly for someone associated with this institution.  The illustration will make a stunning display when framed and placed in your home or studio.  Original material such as this is becoming increasingly difficult to find, so don't miss this one!

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 10 3/4 X 16 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 excellent condition. It has the rich sepia tone that you expect in original material from this period.  It is highly displayable, and I guarantee your satisfaction! 

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