An outstanding copperplate engraving of John Speed's decorative map of "CORNWALL". This is one of the most famous and decorative of all English county maps, with an inset view of Launceston, coats of arms, ships, sea-monsters and various local antiquities. This edition, post 1623, has the addition of 'The Irishe or Virgivian Sea' below the inset of Launceston. 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. Generally outstanding condition.

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