Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places. The archive comprises images of the historic environment spanning archaeology, historic buildings and social history, but we wanted to focus here on just one aspect of their collection: reconstruction drawings.

These impressive artworks are thoroughly researched to provide not only accurate architectural and archaeological models, but also to give a real sense of time and place. There are stunning recreations of Iron Age settlements, Roman forts and amphitheatres, medieval abbeys, Norman and Tudor castles, as well as battles, farming and scenes of everyday life.

The collection includes several reconstructions from the hand of artist Alan Sorrell, who also worked extensively, in collaboration with some eminent archaeologists, for The Illustrated London News, bringing to life some potentially dreary landscapes with characteristic drama and flair. Get the full picture here.

As always, we are on hand if you can't find what you're looking for, or would like a quote. Please contact pictures@maryevans.com or call us on 020 8318 0034.