Currier and Ives

Currier and Ives was a popular American printmaking firm that operated from the mid-19th century to the early 20th century. The firm was founded in 1834 by Nathaniel Currier, who began by producing hand-colored lithographic prints from his New York City studio. In 1857, he was joined by James Merritt Ives, who became his partner and helped to expand the business. Currier and Ives produced a wide range of prints, including portraits, landscapes, historical scenes, and genre scenes, all of which were highly popular with the American public. The prints were typically produced in large quantities and sold for low prices, making them accessible to a wide range of people. Currier and Ives prints became synonymous with American popular culture and were widely distributed throughout the country. The firm's prints were known for their high quality and attention to detail, as well as their bright, vivid colors. Today, Currier and Ives prints are highly collectible and continue to be prized for their historical significance and artistic value.