John Slezer Paintings

John Slezer was a Dutch-born military engineer and draughtsman who is best known for his work in Scotland. Slezer was born around 1650, though the exact date and place of his birth remain uncertain. He came to Scotland in the latter half of the 17th century, where he found employment under the British military during a period of significant historic and political change, including the Acts of Union in 1707.

Slezer's most famous contribution to art and history is his collection of engravings known as 'Theatrum Scotiae', which provides an extensive visual record of Scottish towns, castles, and landscapes during the late 17th century. The collection was first published in 1693 and included over 50 plates. It is considered a valuable resource for understanding the architectural and urban history of Scotland during that period.

During his career, Slezer rose through the military ranks and was appointed as a Captain of the Artillery Company. His work required detailed knowledge of the Scottish landscape, which was strategic for military planning and fortifications. This expertise no doubt contributed to the accuracy and detail of his engravings, which went beyond mere artistic representation to provide a factual account of the Scottish terrain and built environment.

Slezer continued to work and publish in Scotland until his death in 1717. His legacy is preserved through 'Theatrum Scotiae', which remains a significant historical document, providing insight into 17th-century Scotland. His engravings have been reproduced in various forms and continue to be of interest to historians, geographers, and art historians alike.