England and London Government Map with Allegorical Vignettes, 1720

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England and London Government Map with Allegorical Vignettes, ca. 1720 : This highly decorative and information-rich copperplate engraving, titled "Nouvelle … Read more England and London Government Map with Allegorical Vignettes, ca. 1720 : This highly decorative and information-rich copperplate engraving, titled "Nouvelle carte du Gouvernement civil D'Angleterre et de celuy de la ville de Londres," was published around 1720 by Henri Abraham Chatelain in Amsterdam. This striking composition offers a fascinating snapshot of both the geographical and political organization of England and the city of London during the early 18th century. The top portion of the sheet contains a finely engraved map of England and Wales, complete with major cities, rivers, and territorial boundaries, and is accompanied by a key to the regions of governance. Below it lies an attractively detailed map of the city of London, focused on the River Thames and its surrounding boroughs, rendered with precise street layouts and districts. What sets this piece apart is the inclusion of two large allegorical vignettes flanking the upper corners. On the left, an imaginative classical scene shows Britannia with personifications of justice and virtue, while the right vignette evokes enlightenment and lawmaking, aligning the image of governance with ideals of order and wisdom. These vivid hand-colored scenes imbue the map with grandeur and symbolic depth, blending cartographic detail with narrative illustration. The French text that fills the bottom and side margins offers comprehensive commentary on English civil administration, the role of sheriffs, magistrates, and judges, and the unique municipal structure of London. This makes the print both a map and a political document, appealing to collectors of cartography, legal history, and Anglo-French Enlightenment thought. Condition summary: Overall very good condition with a strong impression and original hand-coloring. Minor signs of age include light toning, faint folds, middle fold as issued, and a few spots at the outer margin, not affecting the image or text. Edges are clean and the paper is stable. Framing suggestion: Due to its symmetrical structure and narrative richness, this piece would benefit from a broad archival mat with a black or dark wood neoclassical frame. Ideally displayed in a study or library, it will appeal to lovers of antique cartography, British history, and decorative Enlightenment-era prints. See less