c.1855 Philadelphia Hand-Colored Etching — Framed with Architectural Vignettes

This is an original mid-19th century hand-colored etching of Philadelphia, professionally framed and matted under glass. Likely dating to around 1855, this elegantly detailed city plan offers a richly colored view of Philadelphia's urban core during the pre-Civil War period, including the neighborhoods of Spring Garden, Northern Liberties, and Moyamensing.

The map features finely rendered vignettes of two of the city’s most iconic buildings: The United States Bank and The Exchange, engraved along the lower border facing the Delaware River. Prominent landmarks such as Girard College, Washington Square, Logan Square, and Independence Square are shaded in green, while the street grid is accentuated in a soft red hue. A key along the bottom edge lists over 100 points of interest.

This piece is a hand-colored etching, a less common but highly collectible format in 19th-century cartography, presented in a silver-toned wood frame with cream matting.

Condition

In good condition overall. The map itself is well-preserved with no visible tears, discoloration, or repairs. The frame shows wear, including surface scuffing and edge marks. The matting exhibits light staining, particularly near the top edge. No hanging hardware is currently installed.

Dimensions

• Overall (framed): 22 x 18 1/2 inches

• Visible map area: 12 x 15 1/2 inches