The Escape. A Scene from the Life of an American Fireman

Currently not on view

The Escape. A Scene from the Life of an American Fireman

Late 1850s

James Henry Lynch (Irish (active London), died 1868) After a painting by Alonzo Chappel (American, 1828–1887) Printed by Michael and Nicholas Hanhart (British, active 1840–1890)

Fire was the nightmare of the urban dweller as cities grew denser, and the firefighter proved to be an essential emergency responder. The status of the fireman rose in the 1850s as American fire brigades became paid, professional teams with improved apparatus. Previously run as volunteer companies, these famously rowdy and competitive fraternal organizations evolved into stable community centers, and the men themselves were increasingly depicted as good citizens. This print published in London demonstrates the international celebrity of the tender and stalwart American fireman.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Titles:

The Escape. A Scene from the Life of an American Fireman

Date:

Late 1850s

Artists:

James Henry Lynch (Irish (active London), died 1868) After a painting by Alonzo Chappel (American, 1828–1887) Printed by Michael and Nicholas Hanhart (British, active 1840–1890)

Medium:

Color lithograph (chromolithograph)

Dimensions:

Image: 10 1/4 x 7 7/8 inches (26 x 20 cm) Sheet: 13 x 9 7/8 inches (33 x 25.1 cm)

Classification:

Prints

Credit Line:

Gift of Carl Zigrosser, 1974

Accession Number:

1974-106-297

Geography:

Made in England, Europe

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Currently not on view