Boell, William
1870

Lithographic broadside advertising the services of W. Boell, Philadelphia

DESCRIPTION: This ornate 19th-century lithographic broadside advertises the services of W. Boell, a "practical lithographer" based at 311 Walnut Street in Philadelphia. Surrounded by elaborate scrollwork and allegorical figures symbolizing industry and liberty, the document showcases Boell’s expertise in producing detailed lithographic drawings, including machinery, factories, certificates, architectural plans, and decorative commercial printing such as diplomas, billheads, and cards. The imagery and typography emphasize precision, artistic skill, and industrial pride, reflecting both the aesthetics and business ambitions of America’s printing trades during the post-Civil War era.

William Boell, born around 1832 in France, established himself as a lithographer in New York during the 1850s. With partners he operated the firms Boell & Lewis and Boell & Michelin and worked on notable projects like William Heine’s Japan Expedition prints. Boell also printed maps such as the Map of Licking County, Ohio, showing his early specialization in technical and topographical works

Around 1859 Boell moved to Philadelphia, where he opened his own lithographic business. His firm relocated several times on Walnut and Market Streets and partnered briefly with August Steng.

In Philadelphia he specialized in “perspective drawings of machinery” and produced book illustrations, advertisements, church views, bird’s-eye views and political cartoons, actively promoting himself as a specialist in mechanical and architectural perspectives. Boell’s Civil War work included the popular chromolithograph “Volunteer Refreshment Saloon,” which captured Philadelphia’s Union volunteer relief efforts. Boell continued producing cityscapes and local scenes such as “View of Chestnut Street Between 8 & 9 Sts.” before retiring around 1880 after financial difficulties. He lived in South Philadelphia with his wife Julie and their children and remains recognized for his diverse contributions to American lithography.

CREATOR: Boell, William

PUBLICATION DATE: 1870

GEOGRAPHIC AREA: United States

BODY OF WATER: NA

CONDITION: Fair Ragged edges. Small tear repaired archivally from the verso. Folds, with a few pin-sized holes. Wrinkles.

COLORING: None

ENGRAVER:

SIZE: 7 " x 10 "

ITEM PHYSICAL LOCATION: 41

PRICE: $450

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