Christopher Saxton and William Hole

Code: 54088

Date: 1607

waf. Long title: Cestriae  Comitatus Romanis Legionibus et Colonijs olim insignis vera et absoluta descriptio.  Copper engraving with later hand colouring.. Overall  sheet size : 33.7cms x 28.5cms ; Plate size : 302mm x 253mm.  Title in book shaped cartouche, compass rose, scale of distance .Centre fold as issued. Archivally repaired top neatline and margin, centrefold strengthened the entire length as is left margin.  As described, below the text on verso shows through at the front of the map in the blank areas - please examine the photographs carefully.  However, a rare map and a very decorative item despite its flaws.

This series of maps were the first in which each county was deliniated on a separate sheet.  They were prepared by William Kip and William Hole and were mainly based on those of Christopher Saxton and Norden. The first issue of these maps was in 1607 with Latin text on the back of the maps and as the paper on which they are printed is rather thin, the lettering sometimes shows through on to the front of the map.  In the subsequent two editions of 1610 and 1637 the maps had no text on the back and plate numbers were added to many maps for the 1637 edition.  The maps were not issued again.  The layout , calligraphy and general appearance of these maps are very similar to their Saxton counterparts.