| Method | Copper engraving |
| Artist | [Anonymous] |
| Published | Engraved for the Geographical Dictionary [c.1760] |
| Dimensions | Image 156 x 205 mm, Plate 175 x 228 mm, Sheet 230 x 313 mm |
| Notes |
A view of the Lighthouse of Alexandria, on the island Pharos just of the shore of mainland Alexandria, featuring views of the harbour, and a couple of ships at sea. The lighthouse was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, built for Ptolemy I Storer and his son around 280 BC. The structure was lost, possibly due to an earthquake, some time after the 12th century. Ancient writers do not seem to agree what the lighthouse looked like, but it is often described as being painted white so it was more visible at sea, and at having a square base, octagonal middle section and cylindrical spire, with a constantly burning fire at the top. The building measured between a 100 and 140 metres, making it one of the tallest structures in existence at the time, coming second only to the Pyramids of Giza. The island on which it was built, Pharos, became another name for the lighthouse and was later used to describe similar designs. From Bohun's Geographical Dictionary. Condition: Good impression. Overall time toning, especially to edges of the sheet. Glue residue to corners on verso. |
| Framing | unmounted |
| Price | £75.00 |
| Stock ID | 47816 |