American Pictures

Local Description

Numerous drawings, many full page, 1 folding panorama [Clear Creek]. Very good in early green half morocco and boards, gilt spine titles. Gilt library crest to front boards. Spine edges very slightly worn.

Description

The book features a series of illustrations and descriptive passages that depict various aspects of American society, including its people, cities, and rural scenes. Manning’s observations offer a snapshot of the country during a time of significant change, capturing the contrasts between the urban and rural, the old and the new. The illustrations are often noted for their attention to detail and their effort to convey the character and spirit of the American landscape and its inhabitants. Manning's work is valuable for its historical perspective and its portrayal of 19th-century American life from a foreigner's viewpoint, offering insights into how Americans and their environment were perceived by outsiders of that era.