John Speed: Cardigan Shyre
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Cartographer:
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John Speed
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Title:
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Cardigan Shyre
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Date:
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1614
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Published:
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London
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Width:
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21 inches / 54 cm
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Height:
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15 inches / 39 cm
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Map ref:
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WCTS1360
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Description:
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Although Cardiganshire is described then as being one of the poorest counties in not just Wales but the whole United Kingdom, this is a remarkably beautiful map with several points of interest.
The upper right bears the cartouche, with the title bisecting two coats of arms, both English. However, the most interesting aspect of this cartouche is the wording in which “I.S.” or John Speed claims responsibility for the survey of the town of Cardigan. This is one of the few occasions on which Speed actually makes this statement in writing. It is also proof that, as with many of the other Welsh towns and counties, he actually visited the location.
The poverty of the county is represented by its sparsity of towns, with only two major settlements being marked; the aforementioned Cardigan and Aberystwyth. Both of these were ports but even then, neither described as being very prosperous.
Therefore, it is odd that the decoration off the shore of the map is so elaborate. Under the plan of Cardigan hangs an elaborate compass rose which is decorated with feathers, a symbol of the Prince of Wales. The sea also abounds with several ships and two separate sea monsters.
WCTS1360 |