This two story Greek Revival Colonial structure was built in Georgia probably during the antebellum period, between 1849 and 1865 when the chivalric and agrarian society flourished in Atlanta and the south. Slavery was the backbone on which this farmland, beautiful architecture and the comfort of the landowners probably depended. Now that the old way of life has ?gone with the wind?, this house remains, situated in a sparsely populated thinly wooded, rural area located several hundred feet from a newer road. No neighborhood houses were nearby; however newer building facilities were being developed around the area.

Today, this magnificent two story structure featured a large overhanging roof. In front of its upper front windows was a balconette which appeared quite sturdy. There were many windows on all sides and a great circle bay window was featured on the lower level left side. The front door was bordered by transom and sidelight structure frames that were devoid of the usual ornamental glass seen to decorate the entryway of houses like this. This door rested on several stone piers. Though dilapidated, the house appeared strong enough to possibly stand for several more years ? if not allowed to be demolished.

Several viewing angles were considered for drawing the scene but this very close view captured many of the key features of interest. The dilapidation was apparent as shown by the exposed pier foundation, missing front porch, missing clapboard panels, broken windows and exposed wall frame studs.

The artist took certain liberties by removing the debris, background foliage and rear storage shed allowing the focus to remain on the main house. Also, as Greek revival colonial houses were usually symmetrical, some windows were not drawn.

The pencil drawing was done in three point perspective to capture the grand pillars and tall walls. Each clapboard plank was drawn to converge at the proper vanishing point to suggest the proper size and converging perspective. The shading and shadows are based on a sun angle directly overhead.

ARTIST?S IMPRESSION: As I completed my examination of the house, the landscape and neighborhood, I imagined a family living there on a fully operational plantation probably owning a few slaves, some farmland, and carrying out all necessary actions to keep up the appearance of the genteel. The ability to continue this appearance would have had to suddenly diminish greatly when Sherman ran his troops through Atlanta during the civil war (circa 1865-77.) The lifestyles could no longer continue as they had. Despite all, it is assured that at some point in time there was a majestic pride within that home which continues to radiate from the grandness of the structure with its bold, beautiful columns.

Limited Edition Quantity: 450
Medium (Giclee on museum quality paper)
Certificate of Authenticity
Designation: JAC04