Original antique wood engraving published by The Graphic in 1880. Engraved by J R Brown. With later hand colouring.
A selection of views from Glasgow forming a double page spread from The Graphic of June 5, 1880.
In 1880,Glasgowwas at the zenith of its industrial power, famously known as the"Second City of the Empire". It was a global hub for shipbuilding, engineering, and trade, characterized by both immense Victorian wealth and the harsh realities of rapid urban growth.
The city was being transformed by grand classical buildings as statements of confidence and wealth. In 1880, the competition for the new Glasgow City Chambers began, eventually won by William Young.
The Glasgow Corporation Tramways were expanding, and by 1880, telephones had just been introduced to Scotland.
The city was a "world-leading industrial centre" home to wealthy merchants, but also a place where public houses and licensed grocers were meticulously mapped as part of social management.
This decade marked the rise of the"Glasgow Boys,"a group of radical young artists who challenged conservative traditions by recording contemporary life with a style influenced by French Impressionism.
TheUniversity of Glasgowon Gilmorehill, with its newly completed gothic spire, was attracting international scholars.
The city's vibrant cultural scene included theatres presenting innovative works by Ibsen, alongside popular music halls.
The 1880 UK General Election saw the Liberal Party defeat the Conservatives, with William Ewart Gladstone becoming Prime Minister.
The1880 Scottish Cup Finaltook place, reflecting the city's burgeoning obsession with football.
Commerce:Local firmA. & R. Scottbegan producing the predecessor to the world-famousScott’s Porage Oats.
J.R. Brown (1850–1918) was aBritish draughtsman and illustrator known for his detailed sketches forThe Graphicnewspaper in the late 19th century, covering historical events and social scenes. His work included scenes of the Irish distress, railway, and architectural drawings, such as Clarence House.
He was active primarily in the 1870s and 1880s, producing wood engravings for publication and he specialized in documentary-style illustrations for The Graphic, including "The Madagascar Difficulty" "Sketches at Majunga Bay" (1883), and scenes of "forced labour to cover rent in arrears" in Ireland.
