Londina Illustrata. Graphic and Historical Memorials of Monasteries, Churches, Chapels, Schools, Charitable Foundations, Palaces, Halls, Courts, Processions, Places of Early Amusement, and Modern Present Theatres, in the Cities and Suburbs of London and Westminster, Volume 1
Wilkinson, Robert
1819-1825
St. James's Palace.
St. James's Palace.
was erected by King Henry VIII. on the site of an ancient hospital or convent, dedicated to the Saint of that name, and which had been founded long prior to the Conquest. The appearance it early exhibited, is fortunately preserved by the drawing from which the present print is taken, which is undoubtedly by the hand of Hollar, and has been kindly lent for the use of this work, by its present possessor, John Towneley, of Towneley, Esq. a Family Trustee to the , F. R. and A.S.S. | |
This view differs in several respects from that some years since published in the Antiquarian Repertory, to which however it bears a considerable resemblance. The representation of the Palace is given with all that minutia of detail which characterizes the works of Hollar. The buildings in the distance are likewise more correctly made out. | |
The several particulars in the history of this pile, which are given in the inscription beneath the plate, preclude the necessity of a further description in this place. Much of the ancient part of the Palace still remains, but a greater part was destroyed by the calamitous fire which consumed or damaged many of the finest apartments, on the . | |
The style of Hollar has been attempted in engraving this Plate, which was judged to be more appropriate, and better adapted to it than any other. | |