Description
Offered here is a rare and historically significant hand-colored engraving titled “Ferry on the Rio Colorado”, dating to around 1870. This antique print is believed to have originated from Volume I of a U.S. government expedition report, possibly from the Lt. Joseph C. Ives Colorado River Survey (1857-1858) or the Geographical Surveys West of the 100th Meridian.
Beautifully detailed and delicately hand-colored, the image captures a pivotal moment in the early American West-depicting a ferry crossing along the Colorado River, a lifeline for settlers, explorers, and military expeditions during a transformative period in U.S. history.
The print features the caption “Ferry on the Rio Colorado” below the scene, with “Vol. I.” and “2U” marked in the margin, pointing to its publication in a limited and highly sought-after government volume. These engravings were not mass-produced and were typically distributed in small numbers to officials, institutions, and scholars.
This piece is a true artifact of the American frontier, offering both visual appeal and historical depth.
Key Highlights:
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Original antique hand-colored engraving, circa 1870
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Captioned: Ferry on the Rio Colorado
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Likely from Vol. I of a U.S. government survey report
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Exceptional detail and coloring-likely applied by hand
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Reflects the expansion of the American West and frontier travel
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A rare print not commonly found on the market
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Excellent for collectors of Western Americana or antique prints
This is more than just a print-it’s a window into 19th-century exploration and the vital role of river crossings in the development of the American Southwest. A beautiful and rare find ready for framing or archival display.
