Parsons & Atwater “The City of Philadelphia”

Parsons & Atwater. “The City of Philadelphia.” 

New York: Currier & Ives, [1876]-ca. 1955.  Mid-20^th century reproduction.  20 1/2 x 32 ½ (image).  Color half-tone.  Not examined out of the frame.  Sold as is.   A/A

This spectacular mid 20^th century reproduction of Philadelphia, initially issued by Currier & Ives in 1876, shows the city poised to enter the year of the Centennial.  The perspective is a bird’s eye view from an imaginary point above West Philadelphia, looking across the Schuylkill at Center City.  In the distance can be seen Camden and rural New Jersey.  The composition is dramatic and the detail excellent.  Particular emphasis is given to major buildings, which are highlighted in white, and the many factories along the rivers, which are shown enthusiastically bellowing smoke.  Railroad yards in West Philadelphia and Kensington are depicted, as is boat and ship activity on the Delaware and Schuylkill.  The planned Centennial Exhibition is represented with a drawing of two of the main fair buildings.  This is a splendid view of a vibrant and confident city.