City of St. Louis. Bird's-eye view of St. Louis, Missouri, as seen from above the Mississippi River 1874

This lithograph entitled "City of St. Louis" was created by Currier and Ives, a printmaking firm in the United States during the 19th and early 20th centuries. It depicts a bird's-eye view of St. Louis, Missouri, as seen from above the Mississippi River. These prints were popular at the time, reflecting the rapid urbanization and industrialization of America. The image captures the city's architecture and infrastructure, particularly the river traffic, crucial for commerce. As an art historian, I analyze such images in relation to their historical context. I would explore city archives, maps, and period newspapers, understanding how urban spaces developed and were portrayed during the period of westward expansion. The image isn't just a visual record; it is a cultural artifact that represents the era's aspirations and the social dynamics of urban growth.