North America - Virginia and Maryland

John Speed, A map of Virginia and Maryland. London, 1676. The map offers a fascinating representation of colonial Virginia and Maryland, centred on the Chesapeake Bay and its extensive network of rivers, estuaries and early settlements. Particularly remarkable is the detailed depiction of the Chesapeake region, including the James, York, Rappahannock and Potomac river systems, together with numerous historical place names, colonial counties, Indigenous territories and early settlements. The upper section is dominated by beautifully engraved mountain ranges, while the surrounding landscape features forests, rivers and geographical details reflecting European knowledge of North America during the 17th century. The map is richly embellished with an impressive baroque title cartouche, decorated with winged figures, fruit and ornamental scrollwork. Additional decorative elements include the English royal coat of arms, an ornamental scale of miles and a finely engraved compass rose with radiating rhumb lines. John Speed is regarded as one of the most important figures in English cartography. His maps are celebrated for their artistic quality, historical importance and elaborate ornamentation. Dimensions: 37,5 x 49,5 cm (engraving), 39,5 x 51 cm (paper). Good condition. The map has been professionally restored in the corners and center, and some lines have been redrawn. See the photos for a good impression.

Estimation:€1,600

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