Title

Chromolithography [Tasmanian views by W.C. Piguenit, lithographed by A. Randall.]

Author

The Mercury

Source

Mercury (Hobart)

Details

8 January 1870, page 2, column 4.

Publication date

8 January 1870

Type

Publication Review

Language

English

Country of context

Australia

Full text

CHROMOLITHOGRAPHY. -  We have to acknowledge two specimen pictures of Tasmanian scenery executed in chromolithography, which are, we believe, the first works of art of the kind ever executed in Tasmania. As such, they reflect infinite credit upon the artist whose productions they are, viz., Mr A. Randall, of this town. The drawings were made by Mr W.C. Piguenit and are very graphic illustrations of local scenery. One of them represents the river Derwent near New Norfolk, and we must say is an exquisite piece of art production – the bold projecting cliff in the foreground; the undulating grass plains in the background, and the pretty homestead embosomed in trees; are all admirably effective in drawing and colouring. The light fleecy clouds, and the smooth water mirroring them; the skiff under nail; the birds hovering over the stream, and the other moving features of the scene, all help to furnish a picture admirably true to nature. The second picture given is a view of the river Shannon, near Mount Pleasant; and is a really fine specimen of descriptive art, It is very rich in its general tone, as the rays of the setting sun lend their bright glow to the landscape. The foliage of the trees overhanging the stream, is exquisitely depicted; and the rocky shores of the river irradiated by the last rays of the great luminary, are thoroughly true to nature. Both sketches we may describe as veritable gems in their way, and we congratulate the artist and his interpreter upon the very happy success achieved in their work. If the remaining pictures of the series at all correspond with them in merit, a most valuable addition will be made in a cheap and accessible form to the pictorial illustration of the island. We have much pleasure in taking charge of these two specimens, which may be seen at our office, and congratulate the colony upon the evidence they afford of the presence of a higher order of talent amongst us. 

[The Mercurt, 8 January 1870, page 2, column 4.]