Thirteen Chapters of American History / represented by the Edward Moran series of Thirteen Historical Marine Paintings

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

24990

Title

Thirteen Chapters of American History / represented by the Edward Moran series of Thirteen Historical Marine Paintings

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This book chronicles the monumental 'Thirteen Chapters of American History' series of marine paintings by Edward Moran. Written by Theodore Sutro, who served as Moran's legal counsel, the text details the artist's genius, the fifteen-year labor behind these historic canvases, and the protracted legal battle that secured the works for Moran's widow. It offers a poetic and patriotic overview of American naval achievements from the dawn of exploration to the Spanish-American War.

Summary up to 500 words

Theodore Sutro presents a comprehensive account of Edward Moran's thirteen historical marine paintings, designated by the artist as representing the 'Marine History of the United States.' Sutro describes the series as monumental in character, noting that Moran spent over fifteen years ensuring historical accuracy in localities, ships, and costumes while infusing the scenes with poetic imagination. The narrative recounts a significant legal controversy where New York courts ultimately awarded the paintings to Moran's widow, Annette, after three years of litigation, allowing their public exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The book proceeds to describe each painting in the series, linking them to pivotal moments in American history. It begins with the mysterious 'Ocean' and the landing of Leif Erickson, followed by Columbus's arrival and the Pilgrims' departure from Southampton. The text details the first recognition of the American flag by France in 1778 and the daring burning of the frigate Philadelphia by Stephen Decatur. The narrative continues through the War of 1812, the Civil War's sinking of the Cumberland, and concludes with the Spanish-American War, highlighting the return of conquerors like Admiral Dewey. Sutro emphasizes the series' educational value and its celebration of naval heroes. He highlights the symbolic importance of the number thirteen, interwoven throughout American history and symbolism, from the original colonies to the stripes on the flag. Sutro notes that while each painting is a masterwork, the greatest interest attaches to them as a group. He underscores the patriotic impulse behind Moran's work, which immortalized the maritime achievements of the country, ensuring that future generations could appreciate the heroic episodes linked with names such as John Paul Jones and the heroes of the Spanish-American War. The series stands as both an artistic achievement and an educational exhibit, capturing the spirit of American naval history from its earliest days to the turn of the twentieth century.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/24990.epub.noimages

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data/epubs/pg24990.epub

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Categories

• Biography
• History