Louis Orr (American, 1879-1961), Chowan County Court House, Edenton, North Carolina

Etching, pencil signed and titled, from Orr's series of North Carolina landmarks completed between 1939-1952, matted, full margins, unframed.


Sheet size 15 1/2 x 13 1/4 in.; Mat dimensions 17 x 14 1/4 in.

From the Collection of Ron W. Djuren, Durham, North Carolina

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.

Hinge mounted at upper edge, colored pencil marking to lower margin, even toning, a few areas of staining to the margins.