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The 1856 lithograph titled Baltimore in 1752, engraved by John Medairy and published by John Bachmann, presents a romanticized view of Baltimore as it appeared in the mid-18th century.

Bachmann's image includes twenty-two numbered site references in the bottom margin, distinguishing itself by featuring Federal Hill in the foreground (for the first time) and depicting Native Americans in a pastoral scene. 

John Medairy, an accomplished engraver active in Baltimore from 1827 to 1857, created this lithograph in collaboration with John Bachmann, a well-known publisher of panoramic city views. Medairy's work spans a period of significant growth and transformation in Baltimore, with his firm, Medairy & Bannerman, gaining recognition for their detailed and precise engravings. Medairy's contributions to Baltimore's visual documentation reflect the city's burgeoning importance as a commercial and cultural hub in the 19th century. 

This lithograph offers a blend of historical accuracy and artistic embellishment, capturing Baltimore in a highly idealized manner. Medairy's 1752 differs from the John Moale and John Boqueta de Woiseri views, in that it includes the scenic Federal Hill in the foreground, adding a layer of depth and context to the city's landscape. The presence of a group of Native Americans resting under a tree introduces a narrative element, reflecting mid-19th century artistic trends and societal fascination with indigenous peoples. This romanticized depiction enhances the visual appeal and provides a nostalgic glimpse into Baltimore's early days. 

The enduring appeal of Baltimore in 1752 is evident in its numerous reproductions and adaptations, including those by Theodor Sachee and B. Eschner & Co., published in 1980. This lithograph's presence in esteemed collections such as the Baltimore Museum, the Maryland Historical Society, and the Merrick Collections underscores its historical and artistic significance.  

Medairy & Bannerman:

The engraving firm Medairy & Bannerman operated from 1827 to 1833, during a period of limited competition in Baltimore's engraving market. Known for their well-executed engravings of racehorses for the American Turf Register and book illustrations, the firm gained a reputation for precision and artistry. After the firm's dissolution in 1833, John Medairy continued his engraving career independently, leaving a lasting impact on Baltimore's visual documentation until his death.

This lithograph by John Medairy, published by John Bachmann, stands as a significant artistic and historical document, capturing the essence of Baltimore in 1752 with a blend of accuracy and romanticism, making it a valuable piece for historians, collectors, and art enthusiasts.