Magnus, Charles “The Presidents of Our Great Republic” [Variant]

Charles Magnus.  “The Presidents of Our Great Republic.”  [Variant]. 

Featuring “Franklin Pierce from March 1853” as the latest president.  Steel engraving.  New York: Charles Magnus, 1853.  6 x 8 (image).  Chip in margin with repaired tear bottom right hand side.  Else, fine condition. 

This intricate engraving celebrates the latest president of the United States along with his predecessors.  This print features a different portrait of Pierce than another example we have.  The assemblage is surmounted by an eagle with the crest of the U.S. on his chest and holding the arrows of war and the olive branch of peace.  Massed flags drape top and sides, and olive branches are entwined among the presidential portraits and stars which represent the states.  The motto “E Pluribus Unum” appeals for an end of sectionalism which was currently dividing the states in conflicts that would lead to Civil War in a mere seven years.