John Norden's Speculum Britanniae (Mirror of Britain) was conceived as a project to gradually cover the whole country with a series of books each covering the topography and history of individual counties. The first part to be issued was of Middlesex, published in 1593, with text and 3 maps engraved by Peter van den Keere. The maps were of Middlesex, and the cities of London and Westminster. Although Norden continued work on his project for the rest of his life, only a few further counties were actually published during his lifetime, probably due to a lack of support after the death of Lord Burghley who had sponsored his early efforts. The accuracy of his maps is attested by the fact that his successor John Speed preferred to follow Norden rather than Saxton where both choices were available to him. Norden's map of Middlesex is noteworthy as being the first county map to include the major roads - it would be a further 100 years before roads began to appear on most county maps. There were later editions of Part 1 of the Speculum issued in 1623 and 1655, and a new version in 1723 with newly engraved plates by John Senex closely following the original designs. This example of the Middlesex map is believed to be from the 1723 edition - a most uncommon item. Supplied mounted ready for framing.

Jan Jansson was one of Amsterdam's leading 17th century mapmakers, and a close rival to the Blaeu family. His multi-volume world atlas first saw the introduction of 6 maps of individual English counties into the German edition of 1636, and a further 11 of English and Welsh counties in the Dutch edition of 1644. But when Jansson saw the 1645 Blaeu volume with more decorative maps covering all the English and Welsh counties, he felt obliged to revise his existing plates and complete the set in order to compete. His new volume covering England and Wales was first published in the 1646 Latin text edition of the Atlas Novus. In 1694 the printing plates were acquired by the Amsterdam firm of Schenk and Valk who made various revisions, and sold the maps singly or in composite atlases. This example, covering both Middlesex and Hertfordshire, bears the Schenk and Valck imprint, and has had a graticule of latitude and longitude added. Original full colour.

This small county atlas of England and Wales was first issued in 1748 by a consortium of 7 publishers who also had a stake in the publication of Daniel Defoe's Tour Through the Whole Island of Great Britain. It was advertised as a companion volume to Defoe's work, or as a pocket atlas in its own right. Thomas Hutchinson's name appears as the engraver on 2 maps, but the rest are unsigned and may be by a variety of hands. They are sometimes also known as Osborne/Wale maps. There was a second edition in 1756. Modern colour.

Antonio Zatta was a Venetian publisher and his world atlas, the Atlante Novissimo (New Atlas) was his greatest claim to fame. It was issued in 4 volumes between the years 1779 and 1785, each volume bearing a different date. The work contained maps of just 4 English counties - Surry, Kent, Essex and Middlesex - which all appeared in Volume I, issued in 1779. They were drawn by G. Petteri and engraved by G. Zuliani, and are generally found, as here, with sparse original colour. Uncommon.

John Aikin (or Aiken) wrote this topographical work for children in order "to make my young countrymen better acquainted than they are usually found to be with their native land". The first edition of 1788 did not include county maps, but these were added for the second edition of 1790, from which this example comes. The work was published by Joseph Johnson, but the maps are unsigned. There were four later editions of the book with the maps, and one without. The Middlesex map is fairly simple, befitting the needs of its target audience, and the text may be available at no extra charge.

It is suprising that Cary's large county atlas was issued as late as 1809, as individual maps from it seem to have been sold singly from 1801. The atlas format was perhaps to compete with the similarly sized atlas of Charles Smith, which went under the same title and was published in 1804. It is perhaps Cary's finest production, the maps being notable for their fine design, detail and engraving. The atlas ran to several later editions by Cary, and the plates were later used for a variety of lithographic transfers by G.F. Cruchley. This example is from the second edition of 1811, and is in original full colour. Repaired tear to centrefold.

Original full colour. Repair to bottom centrefold. The Greenwoods surveyed all the counties from 1817-33 for their beautifully engraved county atlas finally published in 1834. Maps were also sold singly as produced. The Middlesex map is corrected to 1829, and this example was sold in atlas format.

Thomas Moule's antiquarian leanings are evident in this series of highly decorative county maps - a stylistic throwback in an age when cartographic work had become much plainer and more utilitarian. The maps were engraved by W. Smollinger, J. Bingley and J. Dower, and first appeared in Moule's English Counties Delineated, a partwork with text issued from 1830-32. They were subsequently made available as a complete work in 1837 under the same title, and were later re-issued in Barclay's Universal English Dictionary between 1842 and 1852. This latter work ran to several editions and the maps were often updated between editions to show the latest growth of the railway network. This example in modern colour is from one of the later editions of Barclay's Dictionary (in which the vignette of Westminster bridge is re-engraved to add the new Houses of Parliament). Supplied mounted and ready for framing.

These maps were first published by Fullarton and Co. in 1833 in James Bell's New and Comprehensive Gazetteer of England and Wales which was re-issued three times in 1834, 1836 and 1837. They were subsequently re-published (again by Fullarton) in 1840 in The Parliamentary Gazetteer of England and Wales, with several further re-issues up to 1849. The maps were engraved on steel and sometimes bear the name of the engraver and sometimes not. This example is from Bell's Gazetteer and bears the signature of R. Scott as engraver. Supplied mounted and ready for framing.

This map was engraved by J. & C. Walker and first appeared in their British Atlas of 1835. Lithographic transfers were later taken for Hobson's Fox Hunting Atlas, and in 1884 for Letts Popular County Atlas. Repairs to centrefold tears.

Pinnock's Guide to Knowledge was a serialised partwork which included a series of county and other maps by Joshua Archer. The maps are most unusual in being printed by a relief process from wood blocks so the lettering and detail is shown as white out of black.

This lithographed map formed part of a Parliamentary Report showing proposed changes to electoral arrangements and boundaries which were subsequently enacted in the 1832 Reform Act. Parliament subsequently ordered the plans be published to the public at large, which was done the same year. Dawson was a Lieutenant in the Royal Engineers charged with survey and production of maps to illustrate the changes.Original colour.

James Wallis's New British Atlas was first published in 1813 by S.A. Oddy. There was a second edition in 1816. This example is from the first edition and is dated 1812 on the imprint. It is in attractive, original, full wash colour, and in good condition. Supplied mounted and ready for framing.

Thomas Dix initiated this atlas project some time around 1816, but after his death it was carried on to completion by the publisher William Darton. The Atlas was issued in 1822, though individual maps bear various dates between 1816 and 1821. This Middlesex map is dated 1820. The maps are in attractive and original full wash colour, and are relatively scarce. Slight overall toning.

Over the first decades of the 19th century, Samuel Neele engraved a number of maps for the Encyclopaedia Londinensis which was published serially. A number of these maps state specifically in the imprint that they were engraved for the Encyclopaedia. Though no such statement appears on the Middlesex map the named publisher is Adlard & Co.who published the work, and the address is that of the Encyclopaedia's office. An unprepossessing little map but not commonly found - one for the collector.

This map was commissioned by the City of London, and surveyed by Robert Whitworth. It shows the proposed course of the new canal, the old River Lea, the so-called "New River", and something of the surrounding countryside.

The Comprehensive Gazetteer was edited by J. Brabner and published by W. Mackenzie. Weller's map was printed by lithographic transfer for it's first and only edition in c1894. Original printed colour.

Mortlake and Hammersmith from the Thames. The New British Traveller was one of a number of publications by Alexander Hogg aiming to tap the bouyant market for works on British topography and antiquities. It included text on each couny, a set of county maps by T. Conder and others, and numerous copperplate prints by a variety of engravers. The work was initially issued in 60 parts from c 1783, and then as a complete work from 1784. This print is the ideal present for a fan of the University Boat Race offering views of the mid-way and finishing points of the race. Narrow right-hand margin, but enough to mount successfully. A little browning affecting the lower-right margin.

The Bishop of London's seat at Fulham, & Lord Stormont's House, Wandsworth. The New British Traveller was one of a number of publications by Alexander Hogg aiming to tap the bouyant market for works on British topography and antiquities. It included text on each couny, a set of county maps by T. Conder and others, and numerous copperplate prints by a variety of engravers. The work was initially issued in 60 parts from c1783, and then as a complete work from 1784. Fulham Palace was the residence of the Bishops of London from the early 8th century. In 1973 the Bishop's seat was relocated and the old palace became a museum, with its grounds now used as a botanic garden and allotments. The Lord Stormont here referred to was the 7th Viscount Stormont, David Murray. The family seat was at scone, but Murry needed a residence near London to pursue his political career, and chose this viilla on Wandsworth Hill, probably leased from Lady Rivers. He later became the Earl of Mansfield in 1793, inheriting Kenwood House. Two prints on one sheet. A little marginal foxing which would be hidden by a mount.

Sion House & Kenwood House. The New British Traveller was one of a number of publications by Alexander Hogg aiming to tap the bouyant market for works on British topography and antiquities. It included text on each couny, a set of county maps by T. Conder and others, and numerous copperplate prints by a variety of engravers. The work was initially issued in 60 parts from c 1783, and then as a complete work from 1784. Syon House was built in the mid 16th century for the Duke of Somerset, being subsequently acquired by the Percy Family, Dukes of Northumberland, in1594. It continues as the family's residence today, and is open to the public. Kenwood (originally Caen Wood) House in Hampstead was built in the early 17th century, and in 1754 was acquired by William Murray, Ist Earl Mansfield, who engaged Robert Adam to remodel and add to it in the 1760's and 70's. In 1925 it was purchaed by Lord Iveagh who gave it to the nation 2 years later, and it is today administered by English Hertitage who open it to the public. Two views on one print. A light stain to the lower title.

Chelsea from Battersea & The Thames, near Northfleet. The New British Traveller was one of a number of publications by Alexander Hogg aiming to tap the bouyant market for works on British topography and antiquities. It included text on each couny, a set of county maps by T. Conder and others, and numerous copperplate prints by a variety of engravers. The work was initially issued in 60 parts from c 1783, and then as a complete work from 1784. Two "London" based views of the Thames. At the time of this print Chelsea was still a village, and would not be joined to the growing metropolis for another 60 years or so. Northfleet was of importance for its dockyards, with a number of shipyards building large vessels for commercial companies such as the East India company. A narrow right-hand margin, but sufficient for mounting.

The Churches of St Pancras and Hornsey. The New British Traveller was one of a number of publications by Alexander Hogg aiming to tap the bouyant market for works on British topography and antiquities. It included text on each couny, a set of county maps by T. Conder and others, and numerous copperplate prints by a variety of engravers. The work was initially issued in 60 parts from c 1783, and then as a complete work from 1784. This print shows the Old St. Pancras Church, which probably dates back to the 11th or 12th centuries, though most of its fabric is later. It ceased to be the parish church in 1822, when replaced by the New St. Pancras church on Euston Road. It was much restored and remodelled in the mid 19th century and continues as a place of worship today. St. Mary's Chruch in the village of Hornsey (now north London) dates from the 13th century. Althougn replaced as parish church by 2 later builds, it has survived both and continues in use today. This print offers views of both churches. A little marginal foxing which would be hidden by a mount.

The Duke of Argyll's house at Whitton. The New British Traveller was one of a number of publications by Alexander Hogg aiming to tap the bouyant market for works on British topography and antiquities. It included text on each couny, a set of county maps by T. Conder and others, and numerous copperplate prints by a variety of engravers. The work was initially issued in 60 parts from c 1783, and then as a complete work from 1784. In 1722 Archibald Campbell, later to become the 3rd Duke of Argyll, bought 40 acres on Hounslow Heath adjoining the hamlet of Whitton. From c1732-5 he built there a Palladian Villa to a design by Roger Morris who oversaw the build. The house was known as Whitton Place and was accompanied by substantial gardens.in the late 1840's the villa was demolished and the estate was sold, much of it being developed for housing in the 20th century.

The Royal Exchange. The Antiquities of England and Wales was the product of Alexander Hogg who was well known as a partwork publisher. Under the claimed authorship of Henry Boswell it was issued serially from c1787-9, and subsequently made available as a complete work. The format was typically 2 (though sometimes up to 6) prints to a page, with one or two accompanying pages of descriptive text on each pair of subjects. It also included the set of English county maps by Thomas Kitchin first used in the London Magazine from 1747-54. The Royal Exchange, on Cornhill, was built at the instigation of Sir Thomas Gresham and opened in 1571. Its function was as a centre for trade and commerce, its primary occupants being London merchants. The Exchange was twice destroyed by fire and rebuillt. This print, engraved by A. Walker after a drawing by S. Donowell, illustrates the second building of 1669, and is supplied with the original, accompanying text from the work..

Old St. Paul's Cathedral. The Antiquities of England and Wales was the product of Alexander Hogg who was well known as a partwork publisher. Under the claimed authorship of Henry Boswell it was issued serially from c1787-9, and subsequently made available as a complete work. The format was typically 2 (though sometimes up to 6) prints to a page, with one or two accompanying pages of descriptive text on each pair of subjects. It also included the set of English county maps by Thomas Kitchin first used in the London Magazine from 1747-54. The old cathedral of St. Paul was built between 1087 and 1314, on a site which had housed 3 previous churches. It was destroyed in the great fire of London in 1666, and subsequently rebuilt in Baroque style to a design of Sir Christopher Wren, the new building being completed in 1708. The cathedral is the seat of the Bishop of London. This print offers 3 views on 1 sheet, and is supplied with the original, accompanying text from the work. A couple of light spots.

Cheapside and Baynards Castle. The Antiquities of England and Wales was the product of Alexander Hogg who was well known as a partwork publisher. Under the claimed authorship of Henry Boswell it was issued serially from c1787-9, and subsequently made available as a complete work. The format was typically 2 (though sometimes up to 6) prints to a page, with one or two accompanying pages of descriptive text on each pair of subjects. It also included the set of English county maps by Thomas Kitchin first used in the London Magazine from 1747-54. At the time of this print Cheapside was the site of a major produce market and an important thoroughfare linking the City of London with Westminster. Cheapside actually means "market place". The first post-conquest Norman Baynards Castle was built by Ralph Baynard on a riverfront site to the east of the modern Blackfriars Bridge. It was demolished in 1213, and in 1276 the site became part of Blackfriars Priory. In the late medieval period a new mansion gradually evolved on a close-by site, now owned by the Dukes of York, which also became known as Baynard Castle. In turn this became the royal palace of Henry Vii and Henry VIII before passing to the Dukes of Pembroke and later the Dukes of Shrewsbury. The house was destroyed in the great fire of London in 1666, though some substantial ruins survived to be incorporated into later wharfs and timberyards. The site is now occupied by a BT office block. This print offers 2 views engrved by Wooding, and is supplied with the original, accompanying text from the work.

Sion House and Kenwood House. The Antiquities of England and Wales was the product of Alexander Hogg who was well known as a partwork publisher. Under the claimed authorship of Henry Boswell it was issued serially from c1787-9, and subsequently made available as a complete work. The format was typically 2 (though sometimes up to 6) prints to a page, with one or two accompanying pages of descriptive text on each pair of subjects. It also included the set of English county maps by Thomas Kitchin first used in the London Magazine from 1747-54. yon House was built in the mid 16th century for the Duke of Somerset, being subsequently acquired by the Percy Family, Dukes of Northumberland, in1594. It continues as the family's residence today, and is open to the public. Kenwood (originally Caen Wood) House in Hampstead was built in the early 17th century, and in 1754 was acquired by William Murray, Ist Earl Mansfield, who engaged Robert Adam to remodel and add to it in the 1760's and 70's. In 1925 it was purchaed by Lord Iveagh who gave it to the nation 2 years later, and it is today administered by English Hertitage who open it to the public. Two views on one page, engraved by Roberts, and supplied with the original,accompanying text from the work.

St. John's Gate, Clerkenwell. The Antiquities of England and Wales was the product of Alexander Hogg who was well known as a partwork publisher. Under the claimed authorship of Henry Boswell it was issued serially from c1787-9, and subsequently made available as a complete work. The format was typically 2 (though sometimes up to 6) prints to a page, with one or two accompanying pages of descriptive text on each pair of subjects. It also included the set of English county maps by Thomas Kitchin first used in the London Magazine from 1747-54. St. John's gate was built in 1504 as the southern gateway to the Priory of the Knights of St. John, as is the only sizeable remnant to have survived the dissolution of the monasteries. It still stands today as the museum of the revived Order of St. John, best known for the ambulance service they sponsor. This print, engraved by Peltro, offers two views of the gate on one page, and is supplied with the original, accompanying text from the work.