Weld, Isaac Jr. “View of Cape Diamond”

Isaac Weld, Jr.  “View of Cape Diamond.”  [Quebec]. 

From I. Weld, Jr.  Travels through the states of North America...during 1795, 1796 and 1797.  London: John Stockdale, 1798.  6 ¼ x 8 ¾ (image).  Engraving.  Folds as issued.  Fine condition.  

A charming and unusual view from an early scenic history of America.  This print shows a view of the east end of the city of Quebec that Weld saw on his travels through the United States from 1795 to 1797.  A sailing ship is shown plying the waters beneath the cliffs to give scale to this high promontory.  Focus is on the panorama of wide river, sloping cliff, and looming citadel which commands a view of the Saint Lawrence River in the eighteenth century.  Historically important, the heights had been taken by the British under General Wolfe during the French & Indian War, was the scene of Arnold’s failed attempt during the American Revolution, and would remain the commanding city of Canada for the next century.  A delightful and early view.