Etchings, some with graphite and whitening, each made in preparation for Orr's series of North Carolina landmarks completed between 1939-1952, two with hand-drawn additions/changes in pencil or white heightening over the etching, 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.

Platemark 8 x 10 in.; Sheet size 16 x 11/3/4 in. (the others 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.

Images in overall nice condition; smudges, stains, and general wear to margins (expected as these are proofs); margin pinhole to one.