Lot 350: A Mirrored Panoramic Lithographic Bird's-Eye View of St. John's, Newfoundland, Dated 1879
This 19th-century panoramic lithograph provides a detailed bird’s-eye view of St. John’s, Newfoundland. The composition features a bustling harbour populated with a high density of sailing ships and early steam vessels, set against the backdrop of the city’s street grid and coastal topography. A distinctive feature of this particular print is that both the image and the title text are printed in reverse (mirrored), suggesting it may be a proof pulled directly from the lithographic stone. The top of the sheet bears the mirrored title PANORAMIC VIEW OF ST. JOHN’S NEWFOUNDLAND, 1879. The upper corners include two numbered keys for identifying various city landmarks and buildings. In the upper right quadrant, there is an inset vignette depicting a neoclassical building, identified as the Colonial Building. The print is housed in a black wooden frame featuring a gilded inner bead. A lot sticker numbered 7 7 is affixed to the lower right corner of the glass.
Condition report:
The paper displays significant overall toning and age-related discolouration. There are prominent areas of blotchy brownish staining and foxing, particularly concentrated along the upper and lower margins. The impression itself remains relatively clear despite the paper condition issues. The frame shows minor surface wear and light abrasions consistent with age.
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