1859 Iron City Commercial College | Bookkeeping, Penmanship & Arithmetic
DESCRIPTION
A magnificent example of nineteenth-century American commercial lithography, this enormous and intricately illustrated advertising broadside promotes Pittsburgh's Iron City Commercial College.
Measuring nearly four feet tall, the elaborate design combines magnificent ornamental lettering, winged allegorical figures, architectural views, and examples of exceptionally skilled penmanship. Two female figures holding quills dominate the upper portion, while enormous decorative arrangements of foliage, ribbons, and testimonials surround the central advertisement. The result is a spectacular celebration of commercial education and the decorative arts during the height of America's industrial expansion.
The Iron City Commercial College offered practical instruction in bookkeeping, penmanship, arithmetic, and countinghouse calculations, preparing students for careers in banking, commerce, manufacturing, and business administration. During the nineteenth century, the rapid growth of American industry created increasing demand for individuals capable of maintaining accurate financial records and conducting complex commercial transactions. Before the widespread adoption of typewriters and mechanical accounting equipment, elegant handwriting and mathematical proficiency were particularly valuable professional skills. The broadside advertises these subjects while demonstrating the extraordinary calligraphic abilities that students could aspire to acquire.
At the center of the broadside is a detailed illustration of the college building at the corner of Penn and St. Clair Streets in Pittsburgh. Near the bottom, an impressive interior view depicts a large classroom filled with students seated at long desks, providing a fascinating glimpse into nineteenth-century business education. Surrounding the central text are numerous testimonials, recommendations, and examples of ornamental writing, all incorporated into a highly elaborate decorative arrangement. The broadside also emphasizes the diplomas awarded to graduates and the professional advantages offered by a commercial education.
Lithographed by A. Krebs & Brother of Pittsburgh, the broadside credits its extraordinary ornamental lettering and flourishes to Cowley and Cooper. The intricacy of the design is particularly impressive, demonstrating the artistic possibilities of lithographic printing and the importance placed upon fine penmanship during the period. Its monumental size, exceptional craftsmanship, and fascinating subject make it an outstanding example of early American educational advertising.
CONDITION
1200 W. 35th Street #425 Chicago, IL 60609 | P: (312) 496 - 3622