275 - Declaration of Independence: Force Print from W. J. Stone's Copperplate (c. 1833)

Declaration of Independence: Force Print from W. J. Stone's Copperplate (c. 1833) Striking rice paper engraving of the Declaration of Independence, 24.5 x 28, printed from Stone’s copperplate in 1833 for inclusion in Peter Force’s American Archives. The Declaration famously begins, "In Congress, July 4, 1776. The Unanimous Declaration of the Thirteen United States of America." Handsomely matted and framed to an overall size of 33 x 37. In fine condition, with unobtrusive intersecting folds (as issued), some minor wrinkling, and faint offsetting. By 1820, the original Declaration of Independence had seriously deteriorated due to inappropriate handling and storage, creating an immediate need for a facsimile reproduction. Commissioned by John Quincy Adams, William J. Stone engraved a copperplate by lifting ink directly from the original and creating a perfect copy. He printed 201 before placing the plate in storage for safekeeping. Peter Force was later commissioned by Congress to print a series of books-now known as the American Archives-featuring the founding documents of the United States. For the occasion, the Stone engraving was removed from storage and used to produce new copies on rice paper, distinguished from the original by an engraving in the lower left corner "W.J. Stone S.C. Washn." The prints of the Declaration were later folded and issued in the first volume of the fifth series of books. After printing, the plate was again retired, now residing with the original Declaration at the National Archives. Congress authorized the printing of 1500 copies of American Archives, but subscriptions for the elaborate edition were disappointing, and in the end many fewer copies—perhaps only 500—were issued. Most were folded and bound into Volume I, Series Five. A super and highly-sought example.