South View of Sydney.
London: JONES, Maurice, 1803 (dated)
Size (neatline): 14.3 x 8.0 cm / 5.6 x 3.1 in
Size (sheet): 22.2 x 14.0 cm / 8.7 x 5.5 in
Technique: Copper engraving
Colour: Hand coloured
Verso: Blank
Condition: Very good
An intriguing early view of Sydney
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 a supposed south view of Sydney. According to that, it is fair to assume that the body of water to the right is Sydney Cove (today typically identified as Circular Quay), with the township of Sydney emerging behind it. The focus of the image, though, is on what consequently would have to be the eastern side of Sydney Cove, which at time was the location of the colony’s first Government House and garden, the preserved foundations of which can now be seen underground at the Museum of Sydney. Given this location, it is doubtful that cattle would have been grazing in the vicinity. However, Woodthorpe never visited Sydney, and his images were based on other people’s accounts and records – explaining the likely artistic licence applied here.
The print title is positioned directly below the image, at bottom centre of the sheet.
A lovely, somewhat imaginary view 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. A light smudge towards centre right edge. Minor chipping along edges.
Item #: 02084
US $240.00