"The Cathedral Church of Hereford", Kip, Johannes

This copper engraving is a fine view of the cathedral with numerous figures making their way to and from the beautiful church. Today, the cathedral houses the world's largest surviving medieval world map drawn circa 1280. Work began on the cathedral in 1079. In 1786 its west tower collapsed. It was rebuilt and restoration work has continued through the centuries. Kip's views in Britannia Illustrata show not only the buildings themselves, but the entire estates, including orchards, gardens, courtyards and many other details. The engravings are meticulously crafted, richly illustrated, and known for their accuracy. The Britannia Illustrata is considered one of the most important English topographical publications of the 18th century. Johannes Kip (1653-1722) was a draughtsman and engraver, who first worked in his native Amsterdam before moving to London at the end of the seventeenth century.

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Condition: A

Spectacular example with full margins and dark, heavy impression with ink standing proud on the paper. Short edge split at upper and lower margin and a few spots in lower blank margin.