The news of this tragic event flashed with the speed of lightning throughout the land. From Maine to California consternation reigned, and feelings of surprise and grief were depicted on every face. The great man now martyred had for more than four years held the highest place in the gift of the American people, and on him their hopes had centered. The designer of the painting of
"THE LAST HOURS OF LINCOLN,"
Jno. B. Bachelder, arrived in Washington on the night of his death, and being impressed with the historic importance of the event, at once determined to collect such materials as should be necessary for an historical picture commemorating that sad scene, and should the demand warrant it, to publishing a steel-plate engraving from it. The design for the painting was soon completed, and arrangements having been made with Brady & Co., Photographers, as soon as the remains of the President left the city each of the persons represented were visited, and at their convenience were posed and photographed in the position which they now occupy in the painting. It being important that the best possible original should be had for the engraver's use, the design was placed in the hands of Alonzo Chapel, Esq., the historical painter, to whose genius the painting is to be credited. Much of its completeness is due to the kindness and attention of the persons represented; as all cheerfully gave their time for frequent sittings, both to the designer and painter.
No expense has been spared to produce a work worthy the scene it represents, and the high encomiums given it by eminent judges is the best proof of the result.
To publish any thing now short of a first-class copy of such a painting would be a breach of confidence to those who have so kindly aided in its production. The proprietor has therefore decided to have this picture engraved in the finest style of line and stipple, the engraved surface of the plate to be 18 × 31 inches; believing that nothing short of a genuine work of art will meet the approval, and secure the patronage of the American people, and to those interested the proprietor can most confidently promise a suitable memento of their departed chief.
The engraving is being executed by H. B. Hall, Jr., Esq., the eminent engraver upon steel.
PRICE OF ENGRAVINGS.—Prints, $15.00; Plain Proofs, $35.00; India Proofs, $60.00; Artist's Proofs (limited to 200 copies which will be numbered and signed by the artist and engraver), $100.00.
A beautiful engraved and photographic Key to the Engraving will be presented to the subscribers. It is a complete picture of itself, and may be had in advance by subscribers only.
JOHN B. BACHELDER, Publisher, 59 Beekman Street. New York.
