"A Plan of London on the same scale as that of Paris: In Order to ascertain the Difference of the Extent of these two Rivals, the Abbe de la Grive's plan of Paris…", Rocque, John

The first edition of this scarce and meticulously engraved plan of the city, with the rather lengthy, full title as follows: A Plan of London on the same scale as that of Paris: In Order to ascertain the Difference of the Extent of these two Rivals, the Abe de la Grive's plan of Paris, & that of London by J. Rocque have been divided into equal Squares where London Contains 39, and Paris but 29, so that the Superfice of London is to that of Paris as 39 to 29 or as 5455 Acres to 4028. London therefore exceeds Paris, by 1427 Acres, the former being 8 1/2 square Miles & Paris only 6 1/3 (repeated in French). This plan examines the full extent of the streets, fields, and topography of 18th century London to Nottingham, Woolwich, Bromley and Hounslow. The map is decorated at bottom with a rather elaborate crest, and the dedication is equally elaborate, as follows; To the most High & Noble Prince John Duke of Montague &c. Grand Master of the most Honorable Order of the Bath, Master General of the Ordnance, Master of the Great Wardrobe, & Knight of the most Noble Order of the Garter….

John Rocque was born Jean, the son of French Huguenot emigrant parents, who settled in London when he was quite young. Rocque is known for his survey and mapping of London, particularly the 16 sheet map city plan he published in 1746; considered to be the finest depiction of London at that time. In 1751 he was appointed Chorographer to the Prince of Wales. His business was destroyed by fire in 1750, but he continued afterward and maintained the success of his business.

References: Darlington and Howgego #101.

Condition: B

A good impression on a sheet with some very tiny pinholes in the map visible only when held to the light. There is a repaired hole just below Black Heath Common that has a small amount of loss. Lower margin with two maginal tears professionally repaired on verso. The fold has been reinforced on the verso.