Historic Americana
Rare 1871 “Groups of Statuary” Catalog by John Rogers
1871-Dated, Original “Groups of Statuary” Illustrated Sales Catalog, by John Rogers, Choice Very Fine.
This original dated 1871, 4 page Printed Illustrated Sales Catalog is titled: “Groups of Statuary” by the artist John Rogers. This catalog measures about 9.75” x 13.25” featuring 24 unique figurines designs offered for sale. These include some very historic collectible examples, including: “The Council of War” featuring President Abraham Lincoln, plus three different designs based on Washington Irving’s story of “Rip Van Winkle”. Still, other period designs range in price from $10-$25, according to this price list upon its rear page. Extremely rare and highly collected, missing by most all owners of Roger’s highly decorative Statuary pieces.
John Rogers (1829-1904) was a prominent American artist of the second half of the nineteenth century. His success has been credited to his keen marketing as well as to his passion for addressing themes close to the heart of the middle class Americans from 1859 to 1892. His sculptures focused on everyday themes like American life, popular literature, and the Civil War. During the period, it was highly in vogue to have decorative statuary on display in prominent homes and his durable plaster, his high quality pieces are prized.