1867 Chromolithograph- Descending the Matterhorn 4 Climbers Fall to Their Deaths

Description: March, 1867 Chromolithograph- During Matterhorn Descent 4 Climbers Fall to Their DeathsEdward Whymper and his party had just become the first to ever summit the Matterhorn. This is an exceedingly rare chromolithograph plate showing the tragedy during the descent from the first Matterhorn summit in 1865. The chromolithograph came in the March, 1867 issue of "Demorest's Illustrated Monthly Magazine," (this listing is for the plate only). This stunning and significant plate is likely the earliest image of the incident on the legendary mountain. Measures approx. 9.25 inches by 11.5 inches. Edward Whymper, English mountaineer and explorer began his quest to climb the Matterhorn, in the Alps, in 1861, but his first seven attempts failed to achieve the summit. But on July 14, 1865, in what many consider the last ascent of the golden age of alpinism, Whymper and his party were able to reach the top by using the Hornil ridge in Switzerland. He was guided by famed French climber Michel Croz, along with Lord Francis Douglass, two Swiss guides, father and son team of Peter Taugwalder Sr. and Jr., Charles Hudson, and the inexperienced Douglas Hadow. Upon descending Hadow slipped and fell onto Croz, dislodging him and dragging Lord Douglas and Hudson also to their deaths. The rope parted, saving the other three. A controversy ensued as to whether the rope had actually been cut, but a formal investigation found no evidence, and Peter Taugwalder was acquitted. The rope had snapped between Taugwalder and Lord Douglas, and it was later determined that rope was old and weak. Apparently other safety measures had been proposed, but ultimately not put in place. The accident haunted Whymper , "Every night, do you understand, I see my comrades of the Matterhorn slipping on their backs, their arms outstretched, one after the other, in perfect order at equal distances- Croz the guide, first, then Hadow, then Hudson, and lastly Douglas. Yes I shall always see them..." CONDITION: Good condition. Some light creasing, a small, light dampstain, a few small spots and a bit of light soiling to the white border. A small marginal tear has an old clear tape repair to the verso. Please also refer to the images to further view condition. SHIPPING: I ship via USPS First Class Package. Shipping is $5.00. I pack carefully and ship promptly. I ship to the United States only, no international orders. Please message me with any questions, and check out my other interesting listings.

Price: 74.95 USD

Location: Camillus, New York

End Time: 2025-01-15T06:11:47.000Z

Shipping Cost: 5 USD