Jean Zuber and Co

Note: Beginning in 1834, these celebrated decorative panels by Zuber & Co. depict iconic views of North America, based on compositions by Jean-Julien Deltil and printed from antique woodblocks dating to the seventeenth century. The complete panoramic series comprises thirty-two panels, printed from 1,690 blocks in more than two hundred colors.

The scenes — including Natural Bridge in Virginia, Niagara Falls, New York Bay, West Point, and Boston Harbor — reflect the idealized vision of America admired in nineteenth-century Europe. Although often considered faithful depictions of the American landscape, certain details clearly recall European ports.

Imported into the United States in the nineteenth century, the Views of North America series was intended for a wide audience but became famous for its installation in the White House. Jacqueline Kennedy salvaged a set of panels from a Maryland residence slated for demolition and installed them in the Diplomatic Reception Room, where they remain today.

For a comparable lot, see Christie’s New York, Live Auction 3758, Interiors, 28–29 July 2015, lot 491.