The Old Print Shop

Faneuil Hall. [Boston]

  • ARTIST: Abel Bowen

  • MEDIUM: Wood engraving,

    DATE: c. 1830

  • EDITION SIZE: Image size 6 1/4 x 4 1/2" ( 159 x 114 mm )

  • DESCRIPTION: An early 19th-century view of Faneuil Hall, captured as a wood engraving and handcolored to highlight the details. Engraved by Abel Bowen.<br><br> Faneuil Hall was a gift to Boston from colonial merchant Peter Faneuil and was designed by artist John Smibert. Initially serving as a market house and assembly room, it became renowned as the place where the Sons of Liberty declared their dissent against Royal oppression. For over 270 years, Faneuil Hall has been a forum for debates on crucial issues. In 1764, Americans first protested the Sugar Act and the Stamp Act here, establishing the doctrine of "no taxation without representation." Subsequent gatherings protested the Townshend Acts, the Redcoat occupation, and the Tea Act.<br><br> Today, Faneuil Hall is part of the Boston National Historical Park and a key stop on the Freedom Trail. The hall depicted in the engraving dates to 1826, when it was expanded to include Quincy Market due to Boston’s rapid growth necessitating a larger marketplace. It was named in honor of Mayor Josiah Quincy, who organized its construction without any tax or debt. This historic site continues to be a symbol of American independence and a bustling marketplace.

  • ADDITIONAL INFO: This piece is in a 14 x 11" mat for handling.

  • CONDITION: In good condition, though there is some deterioration in the lower margin that is hidden by the mat. There are also two small tears: one on the top margin extends 1/4 inch into the image and is not very distracting, and the other is in the right margin but is hidden by the mat.

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