Prints by William Sartain

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This is one of most famous prints of Lincoln, a family portrait based on a painting of Samuel B. Waugh and engraved by William Sartain. This print was copied by many other nineteenth century print publishers, but none equaled the quality of this rich engraving. Lincoln is shown with his two sons and wife surrounded by elegant furnishings of the White House. The family is grouped around a covered table, upon which lie two books, including the Bible. Lincoln and Tad sit to the left, and above Lincoln’s right shoulder is a bust of George Washington, linking the martyred president with the ‘father of the nation.’ Outside the draped window is the outline of the Capitol dome, completed during Lincoln’s terms. Mary Lincoln sits to the right, and Robert stands in the center between his parents. Over Robert’s shoulder is a portrait of William Lincoln, who had died in 1862. At the time of its issue, this print was thought of as a first class example of print making, selling for as much as $20 for an artist’s proof, and $7.25 for a regular print. As Holzer, et al. remark, “In its day, the Sartain engraving was considered the best print portrait of the Lincoln family.” (p. 171) $950

G. [sic] Schussele. "Washington And His Family." Philadelphia: Bradley & Co., 1884. 17 3/4 x 24 3/4. Mezzotint by William Sartain. Excellent impression and fine condition.

A large steel mezzotint engraving by William Sartain of George Washington and his family. The 'Father of the Country' sits in uniform surrounded by his family and symbols of American life. On a table, center, lies a copy of the official plan of the City of Washington. To the right the General has laid aside his sword, and to the left is an olive plant representing peace. Martha sits across the table of Washington and her two grandchildren flank their step-grandfather. Coming in the door is Washington's servant, William Lee. The handsome figures with calm demeanors, rich clothing and furniture, and many symbols graphically illustrate the ideals of American life in the nineteenth century. $650

Portraits by William Sartain: Mezzotint portraits published by Sartain ca. 1868. All are strong impressions and in very good condition.

A series of handsome portraits produced in mezzotint by William Sartain shortly after the Civil War. These handsome portraits would have been framed and hung in many homes throughout the United States, both North and South.

• “Major Gen. P.H. Sheridan.” 10 1/2 x 9 1/4. $325

• "Ulysses S. Grant." 18 1/2 x 14. $450

• “Andrew Johnson.” Reprinted by William Smith, ca. 1880. 18 1/2 x 14. $450

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