- 40
New England--Smith, John.
Description
- New England The most remarqueable parts thus named, by the high and mighty Prince Charles, Prince of great Britaine. [London]: George Lowe for Robert Clerke, 1614 [1626], 302 x 354mm., full-page engraved regional map, separation to old folds, with loss of printed surface at top right, with manuscript reinstatement, additional protective margins at top and right
- Paper
Literature
Burden, Mapping of North America 187, state 5; Church Catalogue 369, state 5
Condition
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."
Catalogue Note
"This is the foundation map of New England cartography, the one that gave it its name and the first devoted to the region [i.e. the colony]" (Burden). John Smith, an English soldier and adventurer, was heavily involved in establishing, and then mapping, the nascent English colonies of Virginia (Williamsburg) and New England.
This outstanding map of New England was produced from surveys made by Smith in a six-week period in 1614, no doubt a coastal running survey, in view of the focus on coastal features, and the dearth of information on the interior. While some modern writers feel that Smith's role in the creation of this map is much over-rated, there seems little reason to dispute his contribution to this important and influential map.
The map was much reprinted, as befits its significance and historical context, and is recorded in nine different states printed over nearly twenty-five years, updated as the colony expanded, this example being state 5 with the addition of "Paynes Ils." within the map, and some cosmetic re-engraving of Smith's portrait. States 1 to 5 are among the scarcest, with Burden recording this state in two institutional examples.