Ducatus Eboracensis vulgo Yorkshire

Particularly fine example of Blaeu's county map of Yorkshire base on John Speed but here with sophisticated Dutch engraving.

As with most of his counties, Blaeu used John Speed’s map first published in 1611 as a model; Speed in turn, based his map on the survey by Christopher Saxton first published in 1579. Blaeu would also follow Speed’s example and include maps of the individual Ridings in addition to the overall map within his county atlas.

The map has been beautifully decorated, with two royal armorial shields on the upper corners as well as a dedication to the infant James, son of Charles I who would become James II. The Cross of St. George is present on the lower left while a cartouche on the lower right focuses on the fishing tradition in the county.

Original colour. Dutch text on verso. Image available upon request. [YORKS1029]