Title Page to "The Theatre of the Empire of Great Britaine" by John Speed

1676

Robert White after Jodocus Hondius I

Associated Names
Robert White

Artist, English, 1645 - 1703

Jodocus Hondius I

Artist After, Dutch, 1563 - 1611/1612

This is a drawing of an architectural facade with allegorical figures. The engraving shows detailed arches and columns, surrounding figures representing historical peoples associated with Great Britain. In the center is a figure of Britannia holding a spear and shield. Above the central arch is a medallion labeled "BRITAIN". Flanking Britannia are figures labeled "A ROMANE" and "A SAXON" above, and "A DANE" and "A NORMAN" below. Between them is an inscribed space titled "THE THEATRE OF THE EMPIRE OF GREAT BRITAINE" by John Speed. Decorative elements include cherubs and shields carved into the architectural details.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    engraving

  • Credit Line

    Rosenwald Collection

  • Dimensions

    plate: 38.8 × 25 cm (15 1/4 × 9 13/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1950.14.1283


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Hermann Marx [d. 1948], Surrey, (L.2816a); (Sotheby, London, sale May 24, 1948, no. 165); Lessing J. Rosenwald [1891 - 1979], Philadelphia, (L.1932d); gift to NGA, 1950.

Associated Names

Wikidata ID

Q65365941

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