Great Seal of Queen Anne After Union with Scotland – Harrison c.1775
Description: 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 emphasises 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, symbolising 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 colouring 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.
Technique: Copperplate engraving with later hand colouring. Publisher: Harrison’s *History of England*, circa 1786, London.
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 colouring. 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.
Bartele Gallery. Original antique maps, sea charts, engravings and works on paper. This is a plain text rendering of a page that is otherwise built in the browser. The catalogue index is at https://www.bartele.net/catalogue and machine readable notes are at https://www.bartele.net/llms.txt.