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This masterful watercolour by British artist James Peachey offers a panoramic view of Québec City and Île d'Orléans. Lévy Point and Montmorency Falls can also be seen. This piece was painted during Peachey’s second stay in Québec City, where he worked alongside Samuel Holland as assistant topographer. His watercolours were among the first landscape sketches in Canada.
1781 - 1786

Québec City as seen by James Peachey

The 18th century seemed to be brimming with military men skilled with a paintbrush. Among them was James Peachey, a British officer and land surveyor. During his three stays in the new British colony, he produced numerous works that capture Québec City and its surroundings. These works depict a peaceful town, recovering from several years of war. The majority of the town's inhabitants are of historic French origin, and they live side by side with the small British elite which is taking root in the heart of the town. Discover this era by delving into Peachey’s watercolours!

View of the Basin of Québec City, the Île d'Orléans, Lévy Point and Montmorency Falls

James Peachey This masterful watercolour by British artist James Peachey offers a panoramic view of Québec City and Île d'Orléans. Lévy Point and Montmorency Falls can also be seen. This piece was painted during Peachey’s second stay in Québec City, where he worked alongside Samuel Holland as assistant topographer. His watercolours were among the first landscape sketches in Canada.
Chronoscope Can you locate this perspective on the map? (unilingual French for a limited time) Source: Library and Archives Canada Document in the public domain (free of copyright) - Acc. No. 1989-218-6 - Date: circa 1784