Ancient Cedars in the Forest of Lebanon

Antique print showing the famous cedars of Lebanon.

This attractive steel-engraved print is based on artwork created by William Henry Bartlett, one of the foremost illustrators of topography of his generation. It was originally included in a volume published by Fisher, Son & Co. in 1836 and shows ancient cedar forests in Lebanon, part of the Ottoman Empire.

Locals can be seen relaxing, smoking, and swinging on the sturdy branches. The trees have significant cultural and religious relevance and feature prominently in the Epic of Gilgamesh and the Bible. The wood’s durability and resistance to insects make it a valuable construction material for ships and buildings dating back to the Phoenicians.