Thomas Cole. 1801-1848.

The Voyage of Life: Childhood. c. 1860. Engraving. Image: 15 x 22 3/4; sheet 21 3/16 x 28 3/8. 'From the Original Painting by Thomas Cole in the possession of Rev^d. Gorham D. Abbott, Spingler Institute, New York.' Printed by J.H. Daniels, Boston; published by James H.Earle, 10 Hawley Street, Boston. Tear in the top center margin, outside the image; otherwise excellent condition. Printed on warm white wove paper. Signed in the plate. $5,000 the set of 4.

Fully lettered proof with the complete text and the lines from the poem by J.H. Daniels:
"Who shall preserve thee beautiful child?
Keep thee as thou art now
Bring thee a spirit undefiled
At God's pure throne to bow?

This world is but a bruised reed
And life grows early dim
Who shall be near thee in thy need
To lead thee up to Him?
He who Himself was undefiled.
With Him we trust thee beautiful child."

The series begins with Childhood, in which a small child and its "Spirit Guide" (guardian angel) emerge from a dark cavern in a boat whose figurehead holds an hour glass. The boat's sides depict more figures of the hours. The cavern represents man's earthly origin and mysterious past; the soft light of morning and the abundant flowers and plants growing alongside the "Stream of Life" are symbols of early life. The narrowness of the river banks and the limited scope of scene represent the limited experience of childhood. The Egyptian lotus, in the foreground, provides another symbol of human existence.

Next.

Cole.

American Fine Prints.

Allinson Gallery Index.

To order or to be placed on the email list, please contact Jane Allinson (allinson@earthlink.net) or send a fax to (860) 429 2825.