Catalog Archive
Auction 134, Lot 410

"Wilshire", Speed, John

Subject: England

Period: 1610 (dated)

Publication: Theatre of the Empire of Great Britain

Color: Hand Color

Size:
20 x 15 inches
50.8 x 38.1 cm
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One of the most decorative maps of Wiltshire, Speed's map features an illustration of Stonehenge, one of Britain’s best known and oldest monuments. The map was drawn and updated from the surveys of Norden and Saxton, enhanced with the boundaries of the hundreds, and filled with detail. The composition is completed with an inset plan of Salisbury, the arms of the earls of Wiltshire and Salisbury, a great compass rose, and an interesting cartouche with text attributing Stonehenge to Ambrosianus King of the Brittaines. The map was beautifully engraved by Jodocus Hondius with his imprint and the date at bottom center. An early edition published by John Sudbury and George Humble between 1611 and 1614. English text on verso.

References:

Condition: B+

A sharp impression printed on quality paper. There is a hint of toning and a small patch on the lower centerfold that repairs four worm holes.

Estimate: $1,000 - $1,300

Sold for: $650

Closed on 12/1/2010

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