Antique Engraving of Chelsea College – View with Formal Gardens, ca.1705
€ 240
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Date
1705
Sheet size
15 × 19 cm (5.9 × 7.5 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-13825-3
Condition
Condition summary: Very good for age. Strong, clear impression with minimal wear to the plate lines. Paper lightly toned with minor spotting in margins, no tears or repairs noted. Paper retains good strength, backed with handmade paper.
About this sheet
Antique Engraving of Chelsea College – Early 18th Century View with Formal Gardens
This finely detailed antique engraving presents a bird’s-eye view of Chelsea College (now the Royal Hospital Chelsea) in London, as seen from the south, across its formal gardens and symmetrical avenues. The perspective captures the grandeur of the college complex, with its central hall and flanking wings, laid out in the classical style characteristic of Sir Christopher Wren’s architectural design. The surrounding grounds are meticulously depicted, with tree-lined walkways, geometric garden beds, and expansive lawns.
The River Thames is shown in the distance, labelled “Die Themse,” revealing that this print was intended for a German-speaking audience. Various parts of the scene are annotated in German script, including “Die Halle” (The Hall), “Das Capell” (The Chapel), and “Das Wacht haus” (The Guard House). The caption below reads “Chelsey Collegium,” followed by a numbered legend explaining the key features. The engraving is also marked “No. 25,” indicating it was part of a published series of views, likely from a European city atlas or travel book produced in the early 18th century.
The Royal Hospital Chelsea was founded in 1682 by King Charles II as a retirement home for veteran soldiers — the famous “Chelsea Pensioners.” This engraving, therefore, not only serves as a record of the building’s early years but also reflects the European fascination with London’s grand public works at the time.
The piece was executed in copperplate engraving, a technique allowing for fine architectural precision and tonal variation through dense line work and cross-hatching.
Condition summary: Very good for age. Strong, clear impression with minimal wear to the plate lines. Paper lightly toned with minor spotting in margins, no tears or repairs noted. Paper retains good strength, backed with handmade paper.
Framing tips: This engraving would present beautifully in a dark walnut or black frame with a light cream or ivory mount, ideally with a period-style beaded edge to echo the engraving’s formality. Museum-grade glazing is recommended for preservation.
Technique: Copperplate engraving Maker: Unknown (vander Aa?), German, early 18th century
