Title Page to "The Theatre of the Empire of Great Britaine" by John Speed

Robert White after Jodocus Hondius I

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of an architectural facade with allegorical figures. The engraving shows detailed arches and columns, surrounding figures representing historical peoples associated with Great Britain. In the center is a figure of Britannia holding a spear and shield. Above the central arch is a medallion labeled "BRITAIN". Flanking Britannia are figures labeled "A ROMANE" and "A SAXON" above, and "A DANE" and "A NORMAN" below. Between them is an inscribed space titled "THE THEATRE OF THE EMPIRE OF GREAT BRITAINE" by John Speed. Decorative elements include cherubs and shields carved into the architectural details.