John Speed Merionethshire Antique Map 1676 Bassett & Chiswell Edition Framed

An original copper-engraved map of Merionethshire by John Speed, from The Theatre of the Empire of Great Britaine, in the 1676 edition published by Thomas Bassett and Richard Chiswell. The imprint reads "Performed by Iohn Speede and are to be solde by Thomas Bassett in Fleetstreet, and Richard Chiswell in St Pauls Churchyard", and the title cartouche reads MERIONETHSHIRE Described 1610.

The map is richly decorated in Speed's characteristic style: armorial panels in the upper corners, an inset plan of Harlech with its castle, a compass rose flanked by cherubs, a sailing ship in the Irish Sea and a strapwork scale bar. The 1676 Bassett and Chiswell edition is widely regarded as the high point of Speed's atlas.

Provenance: framed by Reading Fine Art Gallery Ltd, Cross Street, Reading, whose label to the reverse is annotated "2nd edition 1675".

Size: 55 x 41 cm framed. Uncoloured, as issued in black and white.

Condition: overall toning and some staining to the sheet, consistent with age; the sheet is framed close to the engraved border, so the full margins cannot be seen.

PLEASE READ - the photographs form part of the description. This is a genuine antique several centuries old and it shows its age. Please examine every photograph carefully and make sure you are completely happy with the condition before you buy. The map has not been removed from its frame, so the reverse of the sheet, any text on the verso and any margins hidden by the frame have not been inspected. Hand colouring on antique maps may be original or later. Toning, foxing, spotting, staining, creases and old repairs should all be expected on an item of this age, and anything not visible in the photographs cannot be guaranteed. Dimensions are approximate. If you have any questions or would like more photographs, please ask before purchasing.

Carefully packed and posted.