Old Tolbooth, Leith. 1848. (B4-JJ-41)

This original antique steel engraving depicts the Old Tolbooth of Leith — one of the most historically significant buildings in Scotland’s principal port — in remarkable detail. Drawn by Sir Daniel Wilson from a sketch by J. S. Sharpus Esq. and engraved by William Forrest forMemorials of Edinburgh in the Olden Time (1848), the scene is alive with the everyday life of 19th-century Leith: figures on the steps, a horse and cart, laundry hanging from a line. The Tolbooth served as Leith’s seat of local government, courthouse, and jail for centuries before its eventual demolition. Wilson captured it here at a moment when such ancient buildings were fast disappearing from Scotland’s towns and cities. This print is a rare Proof impression, pulled before the main edition and considered of superior quality and greater rarity than a standard example — an especially fine piece for collectors of Scottish history and Edinburgh topography.

Subscript: Lower Left: D. Wilson from a Sketch by C. K. Sharpe Esqr. Lower Right: W. Forrest. Lower Center: Old Tolbooth, Leith. Published by Hugh Paton, Adam Square, Edinburgh. Lower Right margin: Proof.

Author: Sir Daniel Wilson, F. R. S. S. A. (1816–1892)

Publication: Memorials of Edinburgh in the Olden Time. By Daniel Wilson, F. S. S. A. Acting Secretary to the Society of the Antiquaries of Scotland.

Volume: 1

Publisher: Hugh Paton / Simpkin, Marshall, & Co.

Place of Publication: Adam Square, Edinburgh / London

Date: 1848

Artist: Sir Daniel Wilson, F. R. S. S. A. (1816–1892) after a sketch by C. K. Sharpe Esqr.

Engraver: William Forrest

Page Number: Between 82-83

Paper Dimensions: 9 ¼ x 12 inches

Medium: Steel Engraving

Impression: Proof

Language: English

Coloured: Black and white

Condition: The print is in good condition with age-toning consistent with its date. Light foxing is present and some edge wear is visible. This print is on a very thin piece of paper that has been adhered to a thicker paper behind it.

Reference: Memorials of Edinburgh in the Olden Time, HathiTrust Digital Library