[FIRST OF THE SERIES.]
1. The "Savage State," or "Commencement of Empire." (61½X39.)
The sun is rising from the sea, over a wild scene of rocks, forests, and mountains, dissipating the clouds and darkness of night. Man, attired in skins, is seen engaged in the wild dance and the chase—the characteristic occupations of the savage life. In the picture, we have the first rudiments of society. Men have banded together for mutual aid. The useful arts have commenced in the construction of the canoe, the weapon, and the hut; and we may imagine the germs of two of the fine arts, music and poetry, in the singing usually accompanying the dance of the savage. The empire is asserted, to a limited extent, over sea, land, and the animal kingdom. It is the season of Spring—the morning of the nation's existence.