Artwork

New Orleans: Taken from the Opposite Side, a Short Distance above the Middle or Picayyune Ferry

New Orleans: Taken from the Opposite Side, a Short Distance above the Middle or Picayyune Ferry is an ink print by the Romanticist artist William James Bennett. It dates from 1841 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

New Orleans: Taken from the Opposite Side, a Short Distance above the Middle or Picayyune Ferry is a color aquatint print with engraving elements, hand-colored on wove paper, created by William James Bennett in 1841.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a vibrant river scene opposite New Orleans, showcasing the city's growth through a mix of ships, bustling dock activity, and a smoke-filled skyline with prominent architectural features.

Technique & Style

Bennett employed a combination of color aquatint for broad, expressive areas and touches of engraving for finer details, resulting in a detailed and dynamic print. Hand-coloring adds depth and vibrancy.

History & Provenance

Created in 1841 by William James Bennett, specific provenance details are not provided, though the work reflects the artist's capture of New Orleans during a period of expansion.

Context

The scene captures the economic and industrial activity of New Orleans in the mid-19th century, highlighting its role as a thriving river port city.