Title Page to "The Theatre of the Empire of Great Britaine" by John Speed
1611
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1611
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This engraving looks like a fancy theater stage framed by columns and arches. At the center stands a strong man holding a spear, labeled "Britannia." On either side are four smaller figures—each dressed as a different warrior type (Roman, Saxon, Dane, Norman)—standing in their own arched niches. The whole scene is packed with tiny details like shields, crowns, and scrollwork. The title at the bottom reads *"The Theatre of the Empire of Great Britaine,"* which suggests this isn’t just art—it’s a map of England’s kingdoms. The year 1611 is printed near the bottom, and the whole thing is signed by Hondius. Next, check out how this was made using engraving.
