Royal Observatory Greenwich Drawings and Paintings : View of Wren's Observatory from the front; artist unknown

Royal Observatory Greenwich Drawings and Paintings

<p>Watercolour painting of Flamsteed House, Greenwich from the park. This painting by an unknown artist appears to be unfinished, as the middle window of the second floor is missing. </p> <p> Flamsteed House was built as the Royal Observatory by Sir Christopher Wren in 1675-1676. The large Octagon Room on the first floor originally served as the observing area, with the dwelling rooms of the Astronomer Royal on the ground and basement levels below. This image shows Flamsteed House in the 18th century. Deer have roamed free in Greenwich Park since the time of Henry VIII when they were introduced for hunting.</p> <p> The painting must date post-1771 (most likely 1773) as it shows the summerhouses with the extra story added, although they are far too short in height. Work began on enclosing the courtyard in 1791 which gives a latest date for the image.</p>