Rowlandson (Thomas) and Charles Augustus Pugin.

from Ackermann’s ‘Microcosm of London, showing the stage comprising a large water tank, newly constructed in the early 19th century in order to revive the theatre’s popularity. It was filled from the nearby New River by means of an Archimedes screw, rather than the ancient monastic well that lent its name to the venue when its first proprietor, Richard Sadler opened the doors of his ‘musick house’ in 1683. The tank stage, complete with a waterfall backdrop, was in order to present fabulous aquatic shows such as representations of famous naval battles, or this more fanciful mythological extravaganza depicted,

original hand-coloured engraving, with aquatint by John Bluck, 230 x 275 mm. (9 x 10 3/4 in), a few faint spots,