Pandora by John Gibson

Pandora by John Gibson

C. 1863

Color Chromolithograph

The solemn narrative weight of Greek mythology forms the visual focus of this original 1863 color chromolithograph. Titled "Pandora," the composition documents a prominent marble masterwork by the British Neoclassical sculptor John Gibson. The print captures the full-length figure standing in quiet contemplation atop a circular pedestal, her head slightly inclined as she balances the fateful, unopened box securely in both hands. Produced by the prominent British printing firm Day and Son, who served as Lithographers to the Queen, this vibrant plate was published as Plate 210 in Masterpieces of Industrial Art and Sculpture at the International Exhibition, 1862.

This page was originally produced as a standalone plate for a comprehensive publication documenting the grandest achievements of the 1862 London International Exhibition. During the mid-nineteenth century, the booming global phenomenon of World's Fairs fueled an intense desire among European publishers to preserve and distribute rare cultural artifacts using newly advanced printing methods. Day and Son became highly celebrated for their exceptional ability to translate the complex textures of historic objects, three-dimensional marbles, and industrial designs into fine commercial print media. This print holds immense historical importance because it represents the golden age of British chromolithography, capturing Tenerani's celebrated Neoclassical sculpture with rich, oil-like ink layers that made premier international fine art accessible to Victorian collectors and institutions across the globe.

Dimensions: H 16 ½”x 11 ½”W

Condition:Some foxing