The Old Elephant & Castle Inn, Newington, by T. Rowlandson, 1786. An antique aquatint engraving after the artist Thomas Rowlandson. The text beneath the engraving reads "The Elephant & Castle was first known in 1574 as the NEWINGTON THEATRE being the third theatre built in London when Shakespear's plays 'Hamlet', 'Taming of the Shrew', and several others were played there by him after which it was converted into a Tavern known as 'The Elephant' and was the resort of the Archers who came to practise at the Butts, in latter days it became the Posting House for coaches proceeding to important places in Kent and Surrey. By the side of the inn stood 'The House of God' Joanna Southcott's place of worship & opposite stood the handsome Almshouses built by the Fishmongers in 1619". Early 19th century engraving with original hand colouring. Overall age toned but otherwise good condition.
Approx 46cms by 30.5cms.
