Thomas Cole. 1801-1848.
(after). Engraved by James David Smillie (1833-1909).The Voyage of Life: Manhood. c. 1860. Engraving. Proof impression. Image: 15 1/2 x 22 3/4; sheet 20 1/2 x 28. 'From the Original Painting by Thomas Cole in the possession of Revd. Gorham D. Abbott, Spingler Institute, New York.' Publication line: Boston - Published by B.B. Russell, 55 Cornhill. Printed on warm white wove paper with margins. One scratch in the outer right-hand margin; otherwise excellent condition. $2,000.
A fully lettered proof impression, with the word 'proof' at the lower left of the title space. With the engraved lines from the poem by J.H. Daniels:
Through darkening rains, and threatening storms,
The shattered bark doth ride.
O save the Voyager from the wreck,
Of sins devouring ride.
When by the dreaded tempest home,
High on the broken wave
We know, Thou art not slow to hear
Not impotent to save.
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As the Voyager enters Manhood the landscape shifts to a dramatically dark and stormy setting. The dreams of youth are replaced by the struggles of middle age. The current of the stream has become swift and the Voyager seems to have lost control of his boat. Ahead of him is a waterfall with sinister trees in the foreground. "Life's Passenger" looks toward heaven for guidance, but in the clouds lurk the demons of Suicide, Intemperance and Murder, which Cole thought were ever present in the life of man.
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