Catalog Archive
Auction 189, Lot 253

"A Chart of Manhattan"

Subject: New York City, New York

Period: 1936 (published)

Publication:

Color: Printed Color

Size:
22.2 x 8.6 inches
56.4 x 21.8 cm
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This charming foldout pictorial map of Manhattan was designed by the great graphic artist George Annand as a promotional item for the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel. According to its title cartouche, "In 1626, Manhattan was bought from the Indians for $24. Today, its 21 square miles are assessed at over $9,520,005,326." Numerous sights are illustrated, including the Financial District, Washington Square, Penn Station, the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, Central Park, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Yankee Stadium, and much more. Major bridges are depicted: Brooklyn, Manhattan, Williamsburg, Queensborough, and George Washington. As Hornsby notes, Annand's use of orange as a base color is a unique and distinctive trademark for the artist. Text below the map provides additional information about the city. The verso of the pamphlet features Art Deco-style illustrations and black & white photos that highlight the glamor of the Waldorf-Astoria.

Annand (1890-1980) was a commercial freelance artist. Born in Michigan, he attended art school in Detroit before moving to New York and taking classes at the Art Students League. Annand worked on a variety of projects during his career, including pictorial maps, dust jackets, illustrated books, and advertisements.

References: Hornsby (Picturing America) pp. 34-38, Plate 53.

Condition: A

Clean, bright, and near fine. Issued folding.

Estimate: $600 - $750

Sold for: $450

Closed on 9/14/2022

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