Etchings, each a proof for Orr's series of North Carolina landmarks completed between 1939-1952, the first two with pencil, black ink, and white heightening over etching, both with hand-drawn additions of the figures to the right of the house; the third an etching with pencil signature and inscription indicating it is a proof before the figures and vines on cabin were added, unframed.

The works offered here are from a special collection of trial proofs made in preparation for Orr's famous North Carolina etchings. Many have extensive drawing and notations by Orr.

Platemarks 10 x 8 in. (each approximately); Sheet size 15 3/4 x 12 1/2 in. (the other slightly smaller)

Louis Orr is best known for these remarkably detailed and highly collectible etchings that illustrate historic landmarks throughout North Carolina. Born in Connecticut and spending much of his formative years in Paris, people fervently began collecting Orr’s work in both countries in the early 20th century. Orr was the first American artist to have work in the permanent collection of the Louvre Museum, and his were also the first etchings to ever join the Louvre’s collection.

Robert Humber, the prominent arts advocate from North Carolina, later commissioned Orr to complete this special series of NC etchings to showcase the beauty of the State. The project took twelve years to complete, and Orr and Humber traveled from town to town with Orr faithfully depicting important landmarks throughout.

Scattered creases, spots and stains, commensurate with preparatory nature of these proofs.