Accession Number

2017.016.004

Description

A circa 1911 view of Victoria's Inner Harbour, looking north. The causeway staircase and three small boats are in the foreground. Behind them is the intersection of Government, Humbolt, and Wharf Streets.

Narrative

The Belmont Block building at the corner of Government and Humboldt Streets is under construction in this image. The terra-cotta clad building was completed in 1912, indicating that this scene was captured by the artist in about 1911. 

This etching is part of a set seven etchings by the highly-regarded American Arts & Crafts painter, sculptor, etcher and picture frame designer Frederick William Harer (1879-1949). These etchings depict early 20^th Century harbour scenes in Victoria and Vancouver with a high degree of aesthetic sensitivity.  Their connection to Mary Jean Dunsmuir (Mrs. Henry Croft), herself a painter, musician and lover of theatre, affirms her commitment to art and her appreciation for Victoria’s working harbour, which she saw daily from her Esquimalt (West Bay) waterfront house, Mt. Adelaide.  
 

History of Use

The set of seven etchings, from which this is one, was acquired by Mary Jean Dunsmuir (Mrs. Henry Croft) in about 1913. After her death in 1928, the etchings were inherited by her sister’s son’s daughter, Lucy Lenore Bryden, who bequeathed them to her son, the donor.

Date

circa 1913

Dimensions

30.5 x 38 cm

Medium

Ink

Support

Paper

Technique

Etched; Printed