John Slezer, Southside of the Castle

John Slezer Theatrum Scotiae 1993 Facsimile Print – The Southside of the Castle of Edinburgh

A decorative 1993 facsimile print after Plate I from John Slezer’s Theatrum Scotiae, depicting the south side of Edinburgh Castle. This celebrated view presents the castle from the south with its original Latin and English titles, Facies Arcis Edenburgeanae / The Southside of the Castle of Edinburgh, and draws on one of the best-known early printed images of the city.

Slezer occupies an important place in the history of Scottish topography, and Theatrum Scotiae remains one of the landmark illustrated surveys of late 17th-century Scotland. This example is not an original 1693 engraving, but a 1993 licensed facsimile, produced to mark the tercentenary of the publication. The print was issued in connection with the National Library of Scotland exhibition Scotland First Portrayed, held that year to celebrate 300 years since the appearance of Slezer’s famous work.

That background gives the piece a dual appeal. On one level, it is a striking and historically resonant image of Edinburgh Castle, one of Scotland’s most recognisable landmarks. On another, it is a commemorative late 20th-century reproduction tied to an important exhibition and to the continuing legacy of Slezer’s publication. The result is a print that works equally well as a decorative Edinburgh view and as an object of interest within the broader history of Scottish printed imagery.

Presented in a simple black frame with a cream mount, it displays cleanly and attractively. A handsome framed print for collectors of Edinburgh views, Scottish topography and architectural prints, and a characterful piece for both traditional and contemporary interiors.

Details
Medium: Facsimile print on paper
Artist: John Slezer
Title: The Southside of the Castle of Edinburgh
Framed Size: 44 × 32 cm
Date: 1993
Condition: Good overall condition with light, expected wear consistent with age and framing. The print presents cleanly and attractively overall, with no major issues noted
Frame: Presented behind glass in a simple black frame with a cream mount. Ready to hang

This is a 1993 licensed facsimile print, not an original 17th-century engraving.