Title Page to "The History of Great Britaine" by John Speed

Jodocus Hondius I

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of an elaborate title page for "The History of Great Britaine". The illustration serves as a decorative framing for the text detailing the book's contents. The central figure is a classical warrior holding a staff and shield standing in an arched alcove. Surrounding this figure are detailed architectural elements reminiscent of classical Roman structures. Each side of the central figure features three smaller alcoves, each containing a Roman, Saxon, Dane, and Norman figure. Ornate decorative elements fill the space above and below, incorporating shields, helmets, and classical iconography. The text "The History of Great Britaine" is prominently displayed on the page.