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"Orpheus Charming the Animals", Rare 1920s Print with Mythological Theme

About the Item

Extremely rare, perhaps unique, this 1920s print of Orpheus charming the animals with his lyre and song was made by David Osborne Hamilton, the esteemed poet and businessman. Orpheus is surrounded by a menagerie of animals that would normally be at odds, including bear, leopard, deer and rabbits, all playful and docile amidst the sweet sounds produced by the "god of music." Hamilton was a remarkable talent, having edited the Yale Literary Magazine in his youth, published a number of his own poems, and managed an industrial concern in Detroit. He clearly dabbled in art as his time allowed, but this etching is the only example of his output that we could find. Interestingly, this print was sold by the John Wanamaker department store in Philadelphia, which once had an art gallery among its many offerings. Dimensions include matte and frame; visible print is 7.5 inches high by 9.5 inches wide.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 14.25 in (36.2 cm)Width: 16 in (40.64 cm)Depth: 0.5 in (1.27 cm)
  • Style:
    Art Deco (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    Circa 1920s
  • Condition:
    The print itself is in very good condition, with minor toning around the edge. The matte shows significant toning and need replacing.
  • Seller Location:
    Philadelphia, PA
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU865143210842

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