Fisher's ground plan of the Royal Palace of Whitehall

Rare Reduced Coloured Copy of Fisher’s Ground Plan of the Royal Palace of Whitehall (1680s)

This exquisite historical engraving presents a rare, reduced, and coloured copy of Fisher’s ground plan of the Royal Palace of Whitehall, originally produced in the 1680s. Published in 1807 by John Thomas Smith, this antique architectural print offers a detailed layout of one of England’s most significant royal residences before it was largely destroyed by fire in 1698.

The plan includes an important historical marker—a black star indicating the site where King Charles I was executed in January 1649 after being convicted of treason by Parliament. This historical Whitehall Palace print is not only a valuable collector’s item but also an insightful historical document offering a glimpse into 17th-century royal architecture and governance.

The History of Whitehall Palace: Fisher's ground plan of the Royal Palace of Whitehall

Whitehall Palace was the primary residence of English monarchs from the 16th century until the late 17th century. Originally built in the reign of Henry VIII, it became a grand royal estate, serving as the center of power for Tudor and Stuart monarchs. By the time of King Charles I, Whitehall had expanded into an opulent complex, featuring state apartments, reception halls, gardens, and banqueting houses.

However, its fate took a dramatic turn when Charles I was executed just outside the Banqueting House in 1649, a momentous event in British history. The execution was part of the English Civil War, which resulted in the brief establishment of the Commonwealth under Oliver Cromwell.

In 1698, a devastating fire destroyed most of Whitehall Palace, leaving only a few surviving structures, such as the Banqueting House, designed by Inigo Jones. This plan, originally created in the 1680s, provides an invaluable glimpse into how the palace appeared before its destruction.

Why Collectors and Historians Seek This Whitehall architectural plan

• Rare antique print from 1807

• Faithful reproduction of the original 1680s plan

• Highly sought-after by collectors, historians, and antique print enthusiasts

• Ideal for framing, display, or museum collections

• Perfect for those interested in British royal history and historical architecture

Where to Find This Historical Print

This rare, museum-quality historical engraving is a must-have for history enthusiasts, antique collectors, and scholars of British royal history. Whether you are based in London, Sussex, or across the UK, this exquisite piece will be a valuable addition to your collection.

For collectors searching for rare antique prints in Sussex, this Whitehall Palace architectural plan is available for purchase from select antique dealers and online historical print collections. Don’t miss the opportunity to own a significant piece of British history.

Conclusion

A true collector’s item, this 1807 reproduction of Fisher’s 1680s ground plan of Whitehall Palace is an invaluable historical record of one of England’s most important royal residences. With its rich detailing and significant historical importance, this antique engraving is a must-have for those passionate about 17th-century British history, royal architecture, and rare historical documents.

Whether you are a history buff, an interior decorator looking for an antique print, or a collector of rare maps and engravings, this Whitehall Palace plan will be a prized possession for years to come. Explore more antique prints in Sussex today!