Superb county map of Essex from Bowen's landmark survey of Georgian England.



The map features a decorative cartouche with an agricultural scene, and below a curious vignette depicting people being burnt a the stake in 1555 - this is a reference to the men and women executed for treason because of their religious beliefs during the English Reformation (between 1534-1680). Under the reign of Queen Mary I, around 300 protestants were condemned to death, earning her the nickname 'Bloody Mary'.



The margins of the map are filled with fascinating notes about the towns, industry, markets and nobility of the county. This county map is dedicated to Benjamin Mildmay, Earl Fitzwalter between 1728-1730.
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Original hand-colour. [ESSEX1225]