“Civilization” by James D. Smillie, Vignette Proof on idia, NBNCo

James D. Smillie’s complex vignette entitled Civilization which graced the face of First Charter $500 National Bank Notes. This wonderful image depicts Liberty seated on a smooth bore canon straining her eyes looking toward the future. It is full of symbolism. The canon points downward for peace. The other implements of war are scattered nearby at Liberty’s feet. An anchor, anvil, barrels and bales surround her for commerce, industry and agriculture. Over her shoulder, the Navy and the Army await her call to provide defense. In the far horizon, a dove flies and a rainbow over arches a pastoral setting. Engraver Smillie encapsulated the hopes and longings of a nation caught up in the throes of a civil war when he created this stirring image c. 1862-3. The title is engraved below the vignette as is the National Bank Note Co. imprint. It measures approximately three by four inches on India paper.

James David Smillie (1833-1909) was a son of James Smillie, and was trained by his father as an engraver on steel. While his principal work was bank-note engraving he produced some excellent general work, including a series of illustrations for Cooper’s novels, after designs by F. O. C. Darley. He was an excellent etcher and a founder of the New York Etching Club, and later its president.

Note: this is an ORIGINAL nineteenth century die-sunk proof; not a reproduction or contemporary print. Your satisfaction is guaranteed.