Catalog Archive
Auction 159, Lot 179

The First Printed Map to Draw Upon the Legendary Herrman Map of the Chesapeake Bay

"A Map of Virginia and Maryland", Speed/Lamb

Subject: Colonial Mid-Atlantic United States

Period: 1676 (circa)

Publication: A Prospect of the Most Famous Parts of the World

Color: Hand Color

Size:
19.4 x 14.9 inches
49.3 x 37.8 cm
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The English text verso gives an up-to-date description of the colonies, adding to the appeal of this sought-after and decorative map engraved by Francis Lamb. Oriented with north to the right, the map shows both the Chesapeake and Delaware Bays and Part of New Iarsy. Following John Smith's general outline, Lamb draws upon Augustine Herrman's landmark map for improved geography and English nomenclature, as well as its depiction of the Delaware Bay and River. The boundary between Virginia and Maryland on the eastern shore, settled in 1688, is depicted with the Herrman-like usage of a double line of trees. The map is beautifully decorated with the Royal Arms of England and a large elegant title cartouche. First state with the imprint of Bassett and Chiswell.

References: Burden #456; Goss (NA) #40; Tooley (Amer) p.170, Derivative 9, state 1; Shirley (BL Atlases) T.SPE-2f #23.

Condition: A

An excellent impression on watermarked paper with good margins. There is very light show-through of text on verso, minor toning along the centerfold, and a faint crease adjacent to the centerfold.

Estimate: $4,750 - $6,000

Sold for: $2,900

Closed on 9/14/2016

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