James Preston. “Indian Queen Hotel.” [4th Street below Market]. From a set of twelve prints of Philadelphia taverns.
Philadelphia: Robt. Smith Ale Brewing Co., 1909. 11 ¼ x 14 ¼ (image). Color halftone. Mounted to old acidic somewhat brittle board with time toning to print. Tear in image right hand side. Fine condition. Sold as is.
A colorful and lively print from a set of twelve prints depicting Philadelphia taverns, inns, and breweries from ‘days gone by.’ Each image, drawn by James Preston (1873-1962) shows a building in a period street setting. Philadelphia prints are well known for containing scenes of daily city life, and these early twentieth century images carry on that tradition showing the bustling activity in and around these Philadelphia landmarks. Also included on each print is text giving something of the history of the businesses shown. Decorative and of historical interest, this is a delightful series of Philadelphiana.