York – EH Spencer

This is a reproduction of a stunning British Railways poster created by the artist EH Spencer for the “See Britain by Train” campaign. The poster is similar in style to his earlier  “York: The Gateway to History” railway poster.

The poster depicts some of York’s most famous landmarks of the famous city walls, including Bootham Bar, Micklegate Bar, Walmgate Bar and York Minster towering proudly over them.

Above the buildings is a montage that features some of the great and the good that have been pivotal in the growth and development of York. From left we have the Romans that founded York, the Anglo-Saxons, the Vikings, the Normans and King Alfred of Wessex. On the right hand side we have an Archbishop, possibly Paulinus, the first bishop of York Minster, or Archbishop Thomas who started building the cathedral that in time became the current Minster. Next to the Archbishop is Capt. Christopher Levett an English explorer and naval captain who explored the coast and was the first European to try to settle New England. To his right, in Jacobean dress, is probably the most famous Yorkshireman that ever lived. Some say for the wrong reasons, others would disagree. Guy Fawkes, who failed to blow up the Houses of Parliament, was born in Yorkshire. Next in the line is Captain James Cook the British navigator and cartographer and finally we have George Hudson who was hugely responsible in York’s prominent role in the railways.

Down the left and right borders feature the heraldic shields associated with York, most of which have been taken from the stain glass windows and wall plaques within York Minster.

Our posters are carefully and professionally created from vintage originals. Whilst great care is taken in the production of these posters, we also try to maintain a vintage feel, so there may be small imperfections, fold marks, scuffs, tears or marks that were part of the original poster master. If these do appear they should be visible on the larger views of the item on this listing. The originals of many of the posters we offer can cost many thousands of pounds, so whilst these posters look great, especially framed and mounted on a wall, they are intended as a fun, affordable reproductions and not intended fine art prints.

The 50x70cm version has been specially produced to be used in conjunction with Ikea’s 50x70cm Ribba picture frame which currently retails for around £12. So you can bag a bargain of print and frame for a great price.