Wenceslas Hollar in Tangier
Gillian Williams on the promise of watercolourist and engraver, Wenceslaus Hollar, when he petitioned Charles II to allow him to accompany the British Ambassador on an expedition to Morocco, that he 'would examine all and take designs, and give his Majesty much better satisfaction'.
'In March 1669 His Majesty's scenographer, Wenceslaus Hollar, petitioned King Charles II as follows:
If the King send me with Lord Henry Howard, the Ambassador with whose grandfather I lived in like employment, and allow me £100 towards fitting myself and leaving my house and family in good condition, then I will adventure my person and time, and give an account of what is worthy to be observed in those parts, especially the city of Tangier, for although there is a large map thereof done by me – but performed only upon tradition by word of mouth... I conceive if one should compare the print with the thing itself, as I intend doing if I go there...I would examine all, and take designs, and give his Majesty much better satisfaction.
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