An outstanding copperplate engraving of John Speed's decorative map of "ESSEX, devided into Hundreds, with the most antient and fayre Towne COLCHESTER Described and other memorable MONUMENTS observed". A very decorative and finely engraved 17th century map of Essex which was published in John Speed's Theatre of the Empire of Great Britaine (London:Thomas Bassett & Richard Chiswell, 1676). English text on verso. Later hand colouring

John Speed (1552-1629) is the most famous of all English cartographers primarily as a result of The Theatre of the Empire of Great Britaine, the first Atlas of the British Isles. The maps from this Atlas are the best known and most sought-after of all county maps. The maps were derived mainly from earlier prototypes fo Christopher Saxon and Robert Norden but with notable improvements include parish "Hundreds" and county boundaries, town plans and embellishments such as the coats of arms of local Earls, Dukes and the Royal Household.

Published in 1676 by Thomas Bassett & Richard Chiswell in Fleet Street, London.

On verso, there is a small Library stamp of approx 2cm circular diameter, which cannot be seen from the front. Overall excellent condition.

Overall size including the margins approx 41.5cm x 53cm.