Early 18th-Century Engraving

Lulworth Castle in Dorsetshire, The Seat of Humphrey Weld

Early 18th-Century Engraving

Lulworth Castle in Dorsetshire, The Seat of Humphrey Weld

This fascinating early 18th-century engraving depicts Lulworth Castle in Dorset. It formed part of Britannia Illustrata, a folio of important country estates, created in 1707-09 and updated in 1721.

It’s a detailed topographical work from an unusual perspective.

Lulworth was built in the 17th century, originally as a hunting lodge for aristocracy and Royalty. It’s been the family seat of the Weld family since its acquisition by Humphrey Weld, a lawyer and member of the Royal household.

This view of Lulworth was engraved by Dutch draughtsman Jan Kip (1652/53-1722). For Britannia Illustrata, he worked closely with the artist Leonard Knyff (1650-1722), but intriguingly, the delineation of this work is credited to the lady of the house, Margaret Weld - so we can safely assume that she was directly involved in its production. One can imagine that she was particularly proud of the estate with its extensive gardens.

Framed and glazed.

Medium: Engraving on paper
Overall size: 32” x 25” / 81cm x 63cm
Year of creation: 1721
Condition: Creasing. Darkening. Minor tears. Frame with some wear.

Conservation & History

We care profoundly about our role as custodians and every piece in the collection has been assessed by our conservator. When required, we undertake professional restoration carefully using reversible techniques and adopt a light touch to retain the aged charm of each work. We also restore frames rather than replace them as many are original and selected by the artists themselves.

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