Historical New York Appraisal

Framed Print: 'The New York Port of South Street in 1818'

The item is a framed print depicting a historical harbor scene, likely a busy port with tall ships docked. The print is housed under glass and is set within a light-colored, possibly wooden or composite, frame with a simple profile. There is a visible mat board in a white or off-white color surrounding the print, creating a clean boundary between the artwork and the frame. The artwork itself is a color print, appearing to be a lithograph or similar reproduction technique, given the general clarity and color application. The dominant colors in the print are muted blues, grays, and browns, with touches of greens and reds in the foreground elements like barrels and market stalls, suggesting a somewhat overcast or characteristic port day. The scene features multiple large sailing vessels with intricate rigging, indicative of the 18th or 19th century. On the waterfront, there are various activities including market stalls with awnings, horse-drawn carts, and figures of people, adding to the dynamic nature of the bustling port. The foreground shows a large wooden barrel lying on its side, contributing to the sense of an active loading/unloading area. A distinctive feature is the text at the bottom center, which reads "The New York Port of South Street in 1818" (though 'South Street' and '1818' are slightly obscured by glare), indicating the specific location and year of the depicted scene. To the right of this text, there is a prominent hand-signed signature, which appears to be 'J.M.W.' or similar, suggesting a limited edition print signed by the artist or a significant figure. The condition of the print appears good, with no visible tears or significant discoloration, though the glare on the glass prevents a full assessment. The frame also seems to be in good condition with minor wear consistent with display. The reflective glare from the light source indicates the presence of a glass or acrylic cover for protection. The overall craftsmanship suggests a commercially produced framed print, likely intended for decorative purposes, with the potential added value of the artist's signature.