Frederick Catherwood (1799-1854) and John Lloyd Stephens explored the Maya ruins in two trips between 1839 and 1841 and established the basis of American archaeology's future archaeological expeditions. In 1844, Mr. Catherwood published Views of Ancient Monuments in Central America, Chiapas & Yucatan in London and New York. Three hundred copies were printed for sale, and in the more than 160 years since then, these images have continued to astonish, educate and delight.
Frederick Catherwood's Life
Catherwood was an Englishman born in 1799 into an affluent family. He studied architecture at Oxford University. His real passion in life was art, particularly portraying ancient cultures. He loved to travel which was a significant influence on his art.
At the age of 40, Catherwood accompanied writer John Lloyd Stephens to Central America. Catherwood was going to illustrate a book that Stephens was writing on the ancient Maya ruins. What Stephens and Catherwood found on their trip was majestic, but deserted cities. The ruins in these cities were the inspiration of Catherwood 's art. He did this by using a camera lucida (an optic device that preceded the invention of photography) to aid him in his drawings. The artwork that Catherwood produced was vivid and intriguing and became a best seller.
Frederick Catherwood died on September 20, 1854. While sailing from Liverpool to the United States, his ship was rammed by a French vessel, the Vesta. Catherwood's art continues to be admired today as it wonderfully portrays the mysteries of the ancient Maya culture.
The Lithographs Housed in Mérida, Mexico Museum
Now in Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico a collection of these 25 magnificent lithographs are on view. They are displayed in a restored Belle Epoque manse, now named Casa Frederick Catherwood. Located in the heart of Mérida's historic center, Casa Frederick Catherwood is dedicated to the visual arts of the Yucatán Peninsula. In addition to housing a permanent exhibition of Frederick Catherwood's lithographs in the upstairs galleries, other exibitions are presented.
Casa Frederick Catherwood also has a terrace cafe, gift and book shop, and cultural exhibitions that are open to the public and free of charge.
Casa Frederick Catherwood
Casa Frederick Catherwood is at No. 572, Calle 59, between calles 72 and 74, just a few steps west of the Church of Santiago.
Gallery entry fee is MXN43 (US$4)
A full set of reproductions of Catherwood’s lithographs is available for MXN969 (US$90) on-site at Casa Catherwood or online.
Phone: 917-880-8587 (from the U.S.) or 999-925-0358 (in Mérida)
Hours: Monday - Saturday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m
Where to Stay:
Casa Santiago B & B
The Casa offers three spacious bedrooms, each with private bath. It has a swimming pool and and a tranquil garden patio for relaxation. Located in the historical centro area, within walking distance of Casa Frederik Catherwood, of the Santiago Square and Market, and the Main Mérida Plaza.
Rates: Single or double occupancy US$59 +tax
Calle 63 No. 562, Mérida YU 97000, Mexico
Phone: +52-999-928-9418 or +1-314-266-0378
Cellular: +1-314-608-5899
Where to Eat:
Casa Frederick Catherwood Bistro (at Casa Frederick Catherwood)
Keeping in the spirit of Frederick Catherwood's favoring of Italian cuisine, the Bistro offers contemporary Italian dishes prepared by a talented Italian chef, Luca Cuturi, from Rome. Fine Italian cooking, prepared with locally grown organic vegetables and herbs, and imported ingredients from Italy and the United States, consistent with the principles of "Slow Food." Wines and beers are served table-side in the open-air terrace. Wednesdays additional vegetarian selections are featured.
The Bistro's Spring Hours are 5 p.m. to midnight, Monday to Saturday.
Telephone: (999) 240-8858
RESOURCES:
John Lamkin - Travel Writer, Photographer. Beat: Travel, Luxury, Budget, Food, Wine, Gear, Tech. & more. Global Membership Chair of IFWTWA. Focus: ...
