Map and vignettes wood engraved. Map 17.5x20.5 cm (6¾x8"); image area 73.5x53.5 cm (29x21"); overall sheet 78x58 cm (30¾x22¾") contemporary full bright color to border, map, and some other elements.
The map apparently was a hastily contrived affair, using an earlier block which was cut to show the area of interest, resulting in loss of some names, such as “Ihuachuca” for “Chihuahua.” Vignettes include portraits of Scott, Taylor, Santa Anna, Ampudia, two female allegorical figures for Justice and Liberty; scenes of military engagements with accompanying text: Battle of Monterey; Capture of Gen. La Vega; Battle at Buena Vesta [sic]; Battle of Churubusco, near the City of Mexico, August 20, 1847.
The keen interest evoked by dramatically unfolding events in the Mexican-American war led to an outpouring of images and imprints, attempting to sate the public’s deep need to know. At this point, Scott was well on his way to Mexico City. For ten years, people in the United States had been following events in the Texas-Mexico conflict—the Alamo, Goliad, the Santa Fe Expedition and prisoners, the decimation after Mier, Texas annexation, and, finally, the opening battles of the Mexican-American War fought on Texas soil. News of the conflict created great excitement, and publishers, printers, and mapmakers were quick to supply images and imprints to document a truly international event with resounding consequences. The present print is an amazing example of the iconography of that period, which seemingly captures the three genres—images, maps, and text embodying the propagandistic history associated with Manifest Destiny.
Condition:
Closed tears some into image, a few minor marginal spots, minor chipping, light overall browning; very good.