U.S. Frigate Constitution 1848

Nathaniel Currier made this print of the U.S. Frigate Constitution using lithography, a printing process that democratized image production in the 19th century. Lithography allowed for relatively quick and inexpensive reproduction. The process involves drawing on a flat stone or metal plate with a greasy crayon, then treating the surface so that ink adheres only to the drawn areas. This print would have been one of many, rapidly produced to meet public demand. Currier’s choice of subject matter is significant. The U.S. Frigate Constitution, a symbol of American naval power, speaks to the burgeoning sense of national identity and pride during this period. By depicting it using lithography, Currier made this symbol accessible to a wider audience, contributing to a sense of shared national narrative. So, when we look at this print, consider the materials, the making, and the context in which it was created. This allows us to understand the work's full meaning, challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.