A view of Southwark as it was in 1546. Southwark being on the south side of the Thames lay beyond the control of the city. From the south the only access to London was through Southwark and London Bridge. Inns and taverns flourished to accommodate late arriving travellers as the city gates were closed at night.
Many activities enjoyed by the general population were banned in the City so Southwark, just a short walk across the bridge, became London's playground. Foremost were the bear and bull baiting rings, and gaming houses, popular in all walks of society including with Henry VIII.
Unlicensed theatres flourished and late in the 16th century the Globe theatre was built in Southwark, Shakespeare being one of the shareholders.
The view shows St Saviours church which later became Southwark Cathedral. On London Bridge can be seen the traitors heads impaled on spikes over the southern gatehouse, a grim warning to all travellers.
Comes rolled in a covered tube.
Size: 23.5" x 15"