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Early Lithography

Rare 1825 lithographic panorama comprising 10 plates by T.S. Baynes and a lithographic folding map by Hullmandel after T. Dighton.

This item is referenced in Abbey's Life in England (496) and Hyde's Panoramania (143).

Panorama of The North Bank of the Thames

This exquisite panorama showcases a series of views of the Thames, notably including two plates (numbered 2a and 2b) that depict the same scene from St. Martin’s to Waterloo Bridge, illustrating both the proposed improvements and the appearance of the area in 1825.

If joined the view is just over 15 feet wide.

Accompanying the panorama is a two-page leaflet titled "Prospectus of Proposed Improvement on the Banks of the Thames" and a lithographed map, "Plan of the River Thames ... Showing the line of New Quay, as proposed by Colonel Trench, M.P." In 1824,

In 1824, Lieutenant-Colonel Sir Frederick Trench proposed constructing an eight-foot wide ornamental quay along the North Bank of the Thames. The primary aims were to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the river and alleviate traffic congestion in the Strand area. To garner public support for this ambitious project, the Lithographic Sketch of The North Bank of the Thames was produced. This panorama served as a visual representation of Trench's proposed improvements, highlighting the potential benefits and beauty of the planned quay.

Despite the detailed presentation and efforts to win public support, the project faced significant opposition from tradespeople and other stakeholders. This resistance was strong enough to defeat the bill in the House of Commons in March 1825. However, the idea of constructing an embankment along the Thames was eventually revived, leading to later developments and improvements in the riverbank area.