John William Casilear: A Life in Landscape Early Life and Training Born: New York City, 1811. Casilear’s artistic journey began with an apprenticeship under Peter Maverick, a prominent engraver in New York during the 1820s. He further honed his skills studying with Asher Durand, another accomplished engraver who would become a lifelong friend and mentor. During the 1830s, Casilear and Durand collaborated as engravers in New Y…