| Method | Copper engraving |
| Artist | Matthäus Merian |
| Published | [Frankfurt-am-Main, 1646] |
| Dimensions | Image 198 x 350 mm, Plate 202 x 354 mm, Sheet 330 x 385 mm |
| Notes |
An impressive seventeenth century view of Edinburgh from the south, from Merian's Theatrum Europaeum. Edinburgh Castle features prominently at the far left of the scene, with the buildings of the old town sprawled in its shadow. To the right, the Royal Palace of Holyrood can be seen. The Firth of Forth stretches across the background of the scene, with numerous ships at anchor near Leith. In the foreground, two figures on horseback gallop towards the city walls. Matthäus Merian the Elder (22 September 1593 - 19 June 1650) was a Swiss engraver born in Basel. Beginning his career in Zürich where he learned the art of copperplate engraving, Merian went on to study and work in various cities throughout France. In 1615, Merian returned to Basel. His return to Basel, however, was short lived, moving to Frankfurt the following year to work for the publisher Johann Theodor de Bry. Merian later married de Bry's daughter. He was also the father of Maria Sibylla Merian, one of the greatest natural history artists of the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Condition: Central vertical fold as issued. Minor surface marks and creases, otherwise a clean dark impression. |
| Framing | unmounted |
| Price | £500.00 |
| Stock ID | 46875 |