1893 Print Chicago World's Fair MacMonnies Fountain Art ORIGINAL HISTORIC FAR1

This is an original 1894 halftone print showing the detailed architecture of the Frederick MacMonnies Fountain, which adorns the West end of the Grand Basin, often referred to as the MacMonnies Memorial. The female figures that adorn the fountain are meant to represent Science and the Arts. The female statues hold long-handled bladed oars, which are meant to aid the forward movement of the sea horses (not visible). At the bow stands the grand statue of Fame, which trumpets the approach to land. At the helm stands Old Father Time, and upon the highest pedestal sits Columbia. The panel holds the engraving "E Pluribus Unum." The barge represents the Ship of State and the entire commemorative conception of the voyage of Columbus. (Please note that, typical of halftone prints, there is printing on the reverse.)

Period Paper has obtained a wonderful set of halftone images of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair, also known as the World Columbian Exposition. This collection of the fair's many architectural, artistic, mechanical, agricultural, industrial, archeological, ethnological, historical, and scenic attractions was published in 1894.

The World Columbian Exposition was held from May to October 1893 in Chicago in honor of the 400th anniversary of Columbus' discovery of the new world. In competition with many other cities, Chicago was finally designated the official site and the Exposition was built on 630 acres in and around Jackson Park. It was a spectacular display of progress and prosperity, and included among its many wonders electrical exhibits, exhibits from other countries, and a popular amusement area on Midway Plaisance with carnival rides, among them the first Ferris Wheel. Most of the fair's architecture was based on classical design which gave the area around the Court of Honor the name "The White City."

CONDITION

This 117+ year old Item is rated Very Fine +++. Light aging throughout. No creases. No natural defects. Some light surface rub. No tears. No water damage. Please note that there is print on the reverse. We will also include the text related to this image for reference.

• Product Type: Original Halftone Print; Black / White
• Grade: Very Fine +++
• Dimensions: Approximately 10.25 x 8.25 inches; 26 x 21 cm
• Authentication: Serial-Numbered Certificate of Authenticity w/ Full Provenance
• Protection: Packaged in a custom archival sleeve with an acid-free black board (great for display, gift-giving, and preservation)

FAR1C94