BIOGRAPHY: Asher B Durand

Asher B Durand was born in Jefferson Village, NJ on 21 August 1796. He was taught the art of engraving by Peter Maverick but soon became more skilled than his teacher.

Durand became perhaps the finest engraver of his time, and his superior artistic engraving talent shaped the American banknote industry.

A catalogue of Durand's engravings was published in 1895, to coincide with an exhibition of his work, and the 103 page-book detailed 237 engraved items, including 32 banknote designs.

The first two stamps of the United States, issued in 1847 were engraved by Durand, although the actual engravings were older and done for various banknotes. By 1847, Durand had already abandoned engraving for landscape painting.

Asher B Durand passed away in South Orange, NJ, on 17 September 1886.

You will find Asher B Durand's database HERE.