Banknote motif: oval of lathe work ornament with a wavy edge 1819 - 1847

This intricate design, created by Cyrus Durand between 1819 and 1847, served as an anti-counterfeiting device for early American bank notes. The oval shape, with its wavy edge and intricate network of lines, was a common feature on banknotes during this era. Durand's skill in creating this intricate design reflects the burgeoning American printmaking industry of the early 19th century. The piece, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a testament to the artistry involved in ensuring the security of early financial transactions.