The Album Amicorum owned by Michael van Meer 

Unknown, possibly Michael van Meer (about 1590–1653) 

1614–15, ink and watercolour on paper 

An album amicorum (friendship album) was a personal book that an individual filled with signatures, mottoes, heraldry and illustrations. This example belonged to the German lieutenant Michael van Meer and it features illustrations made during a visit to London in the first half of the seventeenth century. There are a number of drawings and signatures of James, Anna and courtiers throughout the album which give us a unique and intimate insight into royal life. This illustration shows King James on horseback, accompanied by his courtiers, making his way to Parliament. He is shown wearing regalia including the royal crown and sceptre.

View this artwork at the Univeristy of Edinburgh collections