A decorative and detailed 19th century Thomas Moule map of Bedfordshire, with inset views of Dunstable Priory and Woburn Abbey, which was engraved by William Schmollinger and published in Moules English Counties Delineated (London: George Virtue, 1837). This particular example is with rare original hand colour.
The Moule county maps were unusual for the period in that they were highly decorative. The scientific rationality of the late 18th & early 19th century had seen a move away from the flamboyance of earlier map making, emphasizing instead, a greater desire for accuracy and detail. Thomas Moule, like many of his contemporaries, however, was drawn to a more simplistic, pre-industrial age. This was clearly reflected in his maps with their neo-Gothic borders, heraldic shields and views of ancient buildings; ironically, the Moule maps issued later in the 1840s were amongst the first to show the newly constructed railways.
- This is an original steel engraving with original hand colour.
- Printed area is approximately 20cms by 26.5cms.
- The map is in very good condition with adequate margins. Click on image for a better view.
- The item comes displayed in a ready to frame museum quality mount.
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- Guaranteed to be over 180 years old.