Great Seal of Queen Anne After Union with Scotland – Harrison 1786
€ 520
Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)
Date
1786
Publisher
Harrison’s History of England, circa 1786, London
Technique
Copperplate engraving with later hand coloring
Sheet size
42.1 × 25.7 cm (16.6 × 10.1 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-04885
What the condition grades mean
Excellent
Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
Very good
Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
Good
Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
Fair
Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.
Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.
Condition
Condition summary: Very good overall. Minor age toning and occasional light handling marks at edges. Strong impression with crisp detailing.
About this sheet
Great Seal of Queen Anne After Union with Scotland – Harrison c.1775 This antique print depicts the Great Seal of Queen Anne after the 1707 Union with Scotland, engraved for Harrison’s The History of England published around 1786. The upper medallion shows Queen Anne enthroned beneath an architectural canopy flanked by allegorical female figures representing Law and Power, along with cherubs holding the royal arms. The detailed inscription encircling the seal emphasizes her full royal titles and authority as ruler of the newly united Great Britain.
The lower medallion portrays Britannia seated regally with her trident and shield, crowned and holding an orb, symbolizing naval strength and national unity. The background shows coastal cliffs, while to the left are the crown, thistle, and rose, representing England and Scotland under a single monarchy. Such seals were used to authenticate royal documents and proclamations, embodying the grandeur and legitimacy of the crown.
This engraving is finely executed with detailed copperplate lines and subtle later hand coloring in golden tones to accentuate its heraldic symbolism. It offers collectors and historians a tangible connection to Queen Anne’s reign, the Act of Union, and the establishment of Great Britain.
Condition summary: Very good overall. Minor age toning and occasional light handling marks at edges. Strong impression with crisp detailing.
Framing tips: This impressive seal engraving will display best in a gold leaf or antique gilt frame to highlight the regal golden coloring. Pair with a dark burgundy or deep navy blue mount to enhance contrast and create a classic historical presentation suitable for libraries, royal collections, and heritage-themed interiors.
