ARTIST: William Ranney
PUBLISHER: Published by the American Art-Union, New York.
MEDIUM: Engraving,
DATE: 1851.
EDITION SIZE: Image 7 7/8 x 11 7/8" (20.2 x 30.3 cm).
DESCRIPTION: Engraved in 1851 and published by the American Art-Union in New York, "Marion Crossing the Pedee" depicts General Francis Marion, a prominent figure of the Revolutionary War, as he crosses the Pedee River in South Carolina. General Francis Marion is celebrated as one of the most distinguished heroes of the American Revolutionary War, particularly renowned for his leadership and bravery in the southern colonies during the conflict. His strategic brilliance and resourcefulness earned him the nickname "Swamp Fox." Marion's exploits and contributions to the war effort have cemented his place in American history as a symbol of courage and resilience. The American Art-Union (AAU), established in 1838 and known as "The Apollo Association for the Promotion of the Fine Arts in the United States" until 1844, aimed to support American artists and promote fine arts appreciation in the country. For an annual fee of five dollars, subscribers received various benefits, including free exhibition admission, participation in an art lottery, and a large original engraving from an American painting. The organization, managed by a committee of businessmen and society leaders, grew rapidly, reaching a peak of 18,960 subscribers in 1849. However, declining subscriber numbers and legal issues, including charges of lottery violations, led to the AAU's dissolution in 1853. Unable to distribute art by lottery, the organization sold its works at auction and disbanded, eventually donating remaining assets to the New-York Historical Society.
ADDITIONAL INFO:
CONDITION: Good condition, lower publication line trimmed.
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