What a difference four centuries make: How London's skyline has completely changed since 1616

R.B

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The 1616 Visscher engraving (above) details the city from Whitehall to St Katharine’s Dock and has been described as one of the most 'recognisable and historic' images of London



The engraving has now been reimagined by Robin Reynolds, who has completed a two-metre-long version of the panorama in pen and ink




The 1616 version, which was completed on four plates, includes dozens of ships with huge sails on The Thames and features few high-rise buildings




The new piece, which is now on show at Guildhall Art Gallery, highlights how the city has changed in 400 years, including the additions of Tower Bridge and The Gherkin






Mr Reynolds revealed he initially started on the drawing (shown above in closer detail), which was completed on acid-free paper, nearly two years ago




The new piece also ties in with 400 years since Shakespeare's death and consequently contains 41 hidden references to the writer's plays and sonnets. Can you guess the one above?
 
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