1870s Print Johnny and Lily Published by Currier & Ives New York - Fair - Good Condition, Visible Wear Stains, See Photos - Wood Framed Measures 17 1/2" H x 13 1/2" W ... Includes FREE SHIPPING. Note the projected collectibles, vintage, antiques, and memorabilia, U.S. market shows substantial growth on-average 6.5% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) to reach $280 Billion revenue by 2033.
Description and History
This is an original 19th-century print titled "Johnny and Lily." The print depicts a sentimental portrait of two children, a popular theme for the era. The boy, Johnny, holds a branch of cherries, while Lily, adorned with flowers in her hair, looks toward the viewer. The artwork is characteristic of the romantic and idealized style of the period.
Maker and Year of Production
The print was made by the renowned American firm Currier & Ives, as clearly indicated by the text "PUBLISHED BY CURRIER & IVES" at the bottom. The address "152 NASSAU ST. NEW YORK" is also visible.
Maker: Currier & Ives was an American printmaking firm headquartered in New York City from 1834 to 1907. Founded by Nathaniel Currier, and later expanded with James Merritt Ives, the company billed itself as "the Grand Central Depot for Cheap and Popular Prints" and produced affordable art for the American public.
Estimated Year: The firm operated as "Currier & Ives" at the 152 Nassau Street address from 1857 until 1872. The style of the clothing, the hairstyles of the children, and the print's typography are all consistent with this mid-19th-century period. The number "639" under the title corresponds to the plate or production number in the company's extensive catalog.
Collectible Value
The value of a Currier & Ives print is determined by several factors: rarity, subject matter, size, and, most importantly, condition.
Subject: Sentimental portraits of children like "Johnny and Lily" were among the most common and popular subjects produced by the firm. While charming, they are generally less sought-after by serious collectors than large-folio prints depicting historical scenes, winter landscapes, or sporting events.
Condition: The print has significant condition issues that heavily impact its value. There is noticeable overall browning (toning) of the paper and prominent water stains (foxing) across the surface, especially at the bottom.
Frame: The simple, dark wood frame appears to be very old and could potentially be the original or from the period, but it does not add significant value.