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Old Liverpool Infirmary and Alms-Houses, with John Cooke's circus in the foreground, c.1826

Herdman, William Gavin (1805-82). English. Medium: engraving. Date: 19th Century. Image shows the beginnings of John Cooke's 'Royal Amphitheatre of Arts'. Cooke had bought the site, now Queen's Square, to stage his circuses, plays, operas and concerts. This eventually led to the construction of the Royal Court theatre. The Old Infirmary was demolished in 1842 to make way for St. George's Hall. Provenance: Private Collection.