Description

Original antique panorama of London by Wenceslaus Hollar. Hand coloured lithograph, published in Melbourne, Australia in 1879. This is a very rare edition of a highly collected depiction of London.

Wenceslaus Hollar (1607 – 1677) A Bohemian etcher, who lived in England for much of his life, after leaving Prague during 30 years war. He lived and died in London, being burried at St.Margaret’s Church, Westminster.

This stunning panorama is the ultimate plan of pre-fire London. It illustrates the city as it was, in perspective and in accurate proportion (unlike other previous plans). The detail of the Globe Theatre in Southwark was essential for the group rebuilding the theatre as it was one of the only true depictions of it from the time. In the sky above London are putti, carrying emblems reflecting London’s positions as the hub of world commerce and culture.