Late 19th Century Vintage Engraving

Description

This is a historic engraving of the Laguna Pueblo in New Mexico. The pueblos were built on the top of … more This is a historic engraving of the Laguna Pueblo in New Mexico. The pueblos were built on the top of buttes, for safety and protection. From their high vantage point the residents were able to see who was approaching, friend or foe. Also their high position made defending them easier. The pueblo people were based on agriculture, growing corn and beans as staples at the base of the butte. Rainfall and water are scarce in New Mexico, and careful irrigation was necessary.

The engraving is made on a metal plate, most likely copper. Multiple prints can made from a single plate. However, the introduction of photography, a less costly process, led to the decline in engraving as a popular medium. However in its day, engravings allowed the common man to own a piece of art in his home.

Today they are collectible, both for their scarcity as well as their intrinsic artistic value. The detail in this work is quite amazing to see. The subject matter is clearly aimed at an audience looking for romanticism: the small gathering at the base of the puebla dressed in indigenous costume, the interest in the peoples of the pueblos, who did not welcome outsiders.

The drawing of this work is credited to, ironically, a Capitan S Eastman. Eastman being universally associated with photography.

The frame measures 12 1/2 x 15 inches. See below for the print dimensions less