"Raising the Liberty Pole" — 1888 — Hand-colored engraving — 1888

This is the only colored engraving of Raising the Liberty Pole that I've seen. It’s a wonderful image with a great dedication. (See below for the text.)  I bought this in order to offer limited edition archival prints. We've completed the scan and we’re now offering this very rare hand-colored print.

We're offering it here unframed. If you wish to have us frame it with this antique frame and the UV-protecting, non-glare acrylic we use on all of the prints we frame, the cost would be an additional $400. Complete your purchase and contact us to have us frame the print. We'll send you a link for the additional amount. 

Note that I've photographed it without any glazing.

— Lee Wright | Founder

Original hand-colored engraving published in 1888 by Joseph Laing, engraved by John C. McRae, after the painting by New York historical artist Frederick Augustus Chapman.

The scene commemorates the spirit of Declaration of Independence through the raising of a liberty pole in a colonial town square. 

Features a group of men hoisting the pole, revelers celebrating around them, a tavern sign bearing the portrait of King George III being pulled down, and members of the Sons of Liberty rallying supporters. A loyalist turns away in anger while a woman lifts her child in celebration, with others looking on.

Liberty poles emerged in 1766 after the repeal of the Stamp Act and became powerful symbols and gathering points for colonial resistance.

Markings:

Printed below the bottom left corner of the image: 
"Painted by F. A. Chapman".

Printed below the bottom right corner of the image:
"Engraved by John C. McRae N.Y."

Printed below image: "Copyright 1888 by Joseph Luing. / "Raising the Liberty Pole." / "Dedicated to the American People" "Commemorative of 1776" "The Centenary of Independence."

Frame size: 28.5" x 37.5"

Shipping: $45. Please allow two weeks for shipping.