"Picturesque America" was published by Appleton & Co., New York, 1872-75. It was the most elaborate publication of travel imagery produced in the 1870s. This publication set out to reveal the unique and varied scenery of all of America. This was made possible by the recent opening of transcontinental railroads and overland communications. It was considered the definitive treatment of the American landscape, and its appearance just before the nation's Centennial graphically marked the United States' progress in exploration and development of scenic wonders during its first century. Appleton employed many of America's most celebrated and respected artists to prepare the illustrations.

This is one of the most beautiful plate books on the United States and Canada ever produced. Includes over 500 wood engravings, many are full-page but some are also oddly shaped. The engravings include works by Thomas Moran, Harry Fenn, Granville Perkins, F.O.C. Darley and other important American artists of the 19th century. The forty-nine steel plate views are missing in this set. Two volumes in matching bindings in half-calf. Volume I - 568 pp., Volume II - 576 pp. Sold as a set of wood engravings. Click on the link above to see the complete list of engravings in the two volumes.

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Condition: B+

The covers are tattered and worn. Contents are clean and bright, fine. Missing the steel engraved views.