Extraordinary copper-engraved atlas map of the county of Sussex with finely engraved decoration. The map is densely detailed; marking towns, cities and villages in as much detail as the space allows. Country estates and houses are shown as fenced properties. Also shown on the map is the developing road network with "computed distances", some topographical landmarks and the occasional annotation to update the viewer of the map to any changes discovered when surveying - for example on the coastline there are notes about coastal erosion - "Middleton Church is in danger of being washing away by the Sea...".



Early town plans of Lewes and Chichester feature in the upper centre of the map, and in the lower left and right of the map, finely engraved panoramic views again of Lewes and Chichester. The views are almost certainly based upon the recognisable work of Samuel and Nathaniel Buck.


The title cartouche features a country scene, with a depiction of a surveyor using a Waywiser and a young child using an early theodolite. On the opposing side of the map, a dedication to the 7th Duke of Somerset, General Algernon Seymour, who resided at Petworth House. Atop the dedication, a Royal Coat of Arms.



An explanation of the map and a key to its features sits in the lower centre of the map, framed with fabulous decoration, including windheads, sea monsters, shells and jewels.



Original outline colour [SUSSEX572]