North-west view of Heriot's Hospital, Edinburgh

Category

Library Item

Item no

8787

Title

North-west view of Heriot's Hospital, Edinburgh

Description

The towers of George Heriot's Hospital stand behind walls in Edinburgh. The school has a central domed tower with an arched entrance beneath it. The wings on either side end with square towers. Many boys are to be seen in the grounds, most of which are wearing caps.

Artist / maker

Macpherson, Aneas

Engraver

Macpherson, Aneas

Date

1789

Size

11.2 x 16.5 cm

Type

Engraving

Location

Edinburgh and Scottish Collection

George Heriot was a famous and wealthy Edinburgh goldsmith and moneylender. When he died in 1624 he left a considerable sum of money to establish a school for the poor and parentless in Edinburgh. Construction of George Heriot's Hospital began in 1628 but was not finished until 1650. It was almost immediately appropriated by Cromwell for use as a military hospital. It resumed its role as a school and home for orphans in 1659. It later came to be known as George Heriot's School, and now operates as an independent mixed school.

Exhibitions with this item

Other views of this item

Related images

Related subjects

Architecture > Architectural features > Cupolas

Education > Educational facilities > Schools

People > Children > Children playing

Places > Edinburgh areas > Tollcross

Places > Scotland > Edinburgh