Skip to main content
Advanced Search
The South Prospect of the City of New York
The South Prospect of the City of New York

The South Prospect of the City of New York

Artist
Date1761
Object number00018982
NameEngraving
MediumInk on paper
DimensionsOverall: 381 x 737 mm, 5 mm, 0.5 kg
ClassificationsArt
Credit LineANMM Collection Purchased with USA Bicentennial Gift funds
DescriptionThis engraving after the painting by William Burgis depicts the bustling river and major architectural landmarks of the city of New York. The image illustrates the various types of boats in the Hudson River, as well as ship building activity, wharves and ports.HistoryThe original South Prospect of New York was issued in 1717 and measured over six feet in length. In 1746 the print was reissued by London printseller Thomas Bakewell, with an updated skyline. In 1761, the Bakewell reissue was revised and re-engraved, this time in a reduced fold-out format for the London Magazine.SignificanceThe port of New York was an active centre of trade and commerce from the time it was first settled by the Dutch. It was also one of the major ports of departure for the China Trade.