Fowles, Lower George Street and Macquarie Place obelisk c1848.

by Fowles, Joseph

Early Sydney, Lower George Street with building elevations on both sides of the street, including the site of the old gaol and the Obelisk in Macquarie Place (on its side so that it would fit!)

Original etching circa 1848 by W. Harris of colonial Australia Georgian architecture drawn by Joseph Fowles (1809-1878) for his Sydney in 1848 recording of the grand early buildings in Sydney. Fowles named many of the buildings and some of the occupants. Interesting notation is provided of the part of Sydney down near the wharves in the mid-19th century. The Sydney Drawing Book by Joseph Fowles was the basis for art instruction in New South Wales government schools from 1869 to the 1880s. Fowles was drawing master at many schools in Sydney and was referred to as 'Father of Drawing in the city' (of Sydney) in the newspaper obituary following his death. This etching has fine later hand-colour, which certainly enhances the visual effect.

Printing extends to the right extremity. There is also a little soiling at top left of the page and lower left corner has been bent. Page measures approx 210 x 270mm. (8 1/4 x 10 5/8 inches)