GEORGE VERTUE (1684-1756)
A Plan and elevation of the Royal Fireworks in St. James's Park
1749RCIN 750427
The Peace of Aix-la-Chapelle, concluded in October 1748, marked an end to hostilities between France and Britain. To celebrate, a firework display with music by Handel was mounted in Green Park. This engraving shows the temporary structure designed by Giovanni Niccolo Servandoni to launch the fireworks. It was partially destroyed by the display, leading Servandoni to attack the Duke of Montagu, the organiser, with a sword.
Royal Collection by c.1900
Cat. 53