Burning of Savannah, plate four of the second number of Picturesque Views of American Scenery

Art Historical Context

John Hill's *Burning of Savannah*, created between 1819 and 1821, is plate four from the second number of *Picturesque Views of American Scenery*, a celebrated series of aquatint prints that captured the dramatic beauty and history of early American landscapes. As a British-born engraver who settled in Philadelphia, Hill brought refined European techniques to depict New World scenes, blending topography with a romantic "picturesque" aesthetic inspired by 18th-century British artists like William Gilpin. This vivid image portrays the fiery destruction of Savannah, Georgia—likely referencing the British evacuation and burning of the city in 1782 during the American Revolution—evoking both tragedy and spectacle. The print's medium, aquatint with etching and hand-coloring on cream wove paper, exemplifies Hill's mastery. Aquatint, a tonal intaglio process using powdered resin to create soft, painterly washes, mimics watercolor effects ideal for smoky skies and glowing flames, while etching provides crisp lines for architectural details. Hand-applied colors heighten the emotional intensity, making each impression unique. Measuring about 10 by 14 inches in its image area, these modestly scaled works were affordable for a growing American middle class, disseminating views of their nation's heritage. Housed in the Art Institute of Chicago's Prints and Drawings department, this piece underscores the rise of American printmaking in the early 19th century, bridging art and history to foster national identity amid post-war expansion. Visitors will appreciate its blend of technical innovation and storytelling power.