Mapping White Hall and Scotland Yard
This 1747 map, engraved by George Vertue, provides a detailed survey and ground plot of the Royal Palace of White Hall, along with the lodgings and apartments belonging to their Majesties (King Charles II and Queen Catherine). The map is based on a survey taken during the reign of King Charles II in 1680, which is noted in the lower part of the map. This historical survey provides a snapshot of the palace and its grounds as they existed in the late 17th century, capturing the architectural and spatial organization from that period.
The map intricately illustrates the layout of the palace grounds, including St. James's Park, the Bowling Green, the Privy Garden, and various other significant structures and locations. It is richly adorned with decorative elements, such as scrollwork, crests, and a detailed cartouche bearing the title at the top center.
Prominently featured in the top right corner is a smaller inset map titled "The Royall Palace of White Hall & Buildings Adjacent," showing the surrounding area in greater context, including the River Thames. Another inset in the left corner provides a map of "The Arch Bishop of Yorks Place at Westminster."
The lower part of the map features an extensive key explaining the various locations marked on the map, along with a dedication to His Grace the Duke of Portland. The River Thames is depicted at the bottom.
George Vertue (1684–1756) was an English engraver and antiquary, known for his detailed and historically significant engravings of English landmarks and portraits. He was a member of the Rose and Crown Club and the Society of Antiquaries. Vertue's works include engravings of historical figures and architectural surveys, such as his map of the Royal Palace of White Hall. He carefully documented his observations and research, which contributed significantly to the study of British art history and antiquities.