A wonderful view of Sydney from the beginning of the 19th century

Description

This view was engraved by Vincent Woodthorpe as an illustration for the The History of New South Wales by George Barrington, first published 1802-03.

The composition features the central section of Sydney Harbour, as seen from the Lower North Shore, possibly Milsons Point. Looking across the water, the view is centred on the tip of present-day Dawes Point, with ships dotting Sydney Cove – today typically identified as Circular Quay – to the left. Even further left, the colony’s first Government House is shown, the preserved foundations of which can now be seen underground at the Museum of Sydney. Above it is a windmill, roughly in the location of today’s Government House. To the right, there is a cluster of houses indicating the emerging township of Sydney. Further to the right, a church is depicted as a prominent landmark. Given its location and the fact that it appears as the only one in the vicinity, we can assume it to be St. Philip’s Church (Sydney’s first church), at the location of present-day Lang Park.

The print title is positioned directly below the image, at bottom centre of the sheet.

A picturesque early glimpse of colonial Sydney.

Publication

The history of New South Wales : including Botany Bay, Port Jackson, Pamaratta [sic], Sydney, and all its dependencies [sic], from the original discovery of the island : with the customs and manners of the natives; and an account of the English colony from its foundation to the present time [1802-03]

Condition

Very good.

A strong impression. Beautiful, delicate colouring. Two light smudges towards top left edge. Minor chipping along bottom edge.

Reference

St Philip’s Anglican Church. (n.d.; 2026, October 13 [accessed]). The Organ Music Society of Sydney. https://sydneyorgan.com/StPhilips.html

Item #: 02776

US $260.00

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