In the cigar label world, collectors are attracted to a particular label with a “Certain Look” . Their fascination might have something to do with the lithographer and how they used detail, or how they used particular shadings of color, or how they printed landscapes or portraiture’s. Each lithographer had his own style, much like a painter that develops his own unique look. When collectors are asked which lithographer they enjoy the names you hear most often are : Heippenheimer and Maur, Harris and Sons, George Schlegel, O.L. Schwencke , George Schmidt, and Louis Wagner. Below are examples of each of these lithographers and what makes their print so unique.
Heippenheimer & Co. 1849-1874. Heippenheimer and Mauer 1874-1885 – On these early Heippenheimer pieces notice the amount of detail and rich shading.
George S. Harris 1847-1892. George opened his lithography business ca. 1847 at 119 North Fourth Street. These artists were adept at scenes of the old western frontier and landscapes.
O.L. Schwencke New York City (1870-1880) O.L. Schwenke & Co. New York (1884-1900). Known for vibrant rich colors, attention to details, and American History.
Geo. Schlegel & Co. New York City (1845-1935). Known for scenes of American folklore and nature.
Schmidt & Co New York City (1874-1916). Known For image transfers of popular figures of their day.
Louis Wagner New York City (1895-195). Known for images rich in ancient symbolism: Gods and Goddesses, and symbols of progress
Cigar Box Label Blog 
Leave a comment