Bufford, John Henry Paintings


John Henry Bufford was an American lithographer known for his prints and illustrations that depicted a wide range of subjects, from portraits to landscapes to historical events. Born in 1837 in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Bufford began his career in lithography early, showing an aptitude for the art form from a young age. He moved to Boston, Massachusetts, where he became an apprentice at the lithography firm of B.W. Thayer & Co.

After honing his skills, Bufford eventually started his own lithography firm, John H. Bufford's Sons Lithography. The company became one of the most prominent lithographic establishments in Boston during the mid-19th century. Bufford was recognized for his craftsmanship and his ability to capture the nuances of American culture during the period. His works included everything from commercial prints, such as advertisements and product labels, to commemorative prints of important events, like the Civil War battles.

Bufford's lithographs were not only artistically significant but also served as historical documents that captured the zeitgeist of 19th-century America. His firm produced works for a variety of clients, including Currier and Ives, which was another major printmaking company of the time.

John Henry Bufford's impact on American lithography was significant, with his prints contributing to the visual culture of the era. He passed away in 1905, leaving behind a legacy of quality craftsmanship and a visual record of an era defined by dramatic change and growth in the United States.