18th Century Cartography
18th century cartography brings together engraved county maps, continental sheets and miniature table globes that trace the geography of the Georgian world.
18th Century Cartography
When you search for 18th century cartography, you encounter framed map engravings, atlas sheets and table globes originating primarily from the Georgian period. The selection includes English county maps by notable cartographers alongside French and Italian regional plates produced across the seventeen-hundreds.
The dominant forms on this page are framed wall art items featuring detailed geographical copperplate engravings. These pieces capture England and Wales, Scotland, Ireland, European regions and global charts, often preserved behind glass within wooden frames.
Materials and Production
These pieces rely on paper sheets printed from hand-engraved copper plates using dark ink. Many examples incorporate hand-applied watercolour tinting to boundaries and cartouches, while globes utilise papier-mâché or plaster spheres mounted in wood and brass frames.
Framing materials in the evidence span plain wood, burr wood and gilt wood, paired with glass to protect the delicate paper surfaces. Brass components appear on mechanical table globes and structural mountings.
The inventory records English county maps alongside French and Italian regional cartography.
Assessing Quality and Execution
The distinction between standard items and superior examples rests upon the clarity of the copperplate impression and the crispness of the hand engraving. Early printings from well-preserved plates display sharper line work and deeper inked impressions than later restrikes.
Condition of the paper sheet and the presence of original hand colouring elevate a piece. Surviving margins, contemporary framing materials and well-documented cartographers further distinguish the finest examples in this category.
Thomas Jefferys·Robert Morden·Thomas Kitchin·Eman Bowen·J Harrison
The 18th Century Cartography Glossary
- Copperplate engraving
- A printmaking technique where an image is incised into a copper sheet, which is then inked and pressed onto paper. This method allowed cartographers to achieve fine, precise lines necessary for detailed maps.
- Cartouche
- An ornamental frame enclosing the title, scale or dedication on a map. These decorative elements often reflect the artistic style of the period.
- Atlas
- A bound collection of maps published together. Disbound pages from these volumes frequently appear individually framed.
- Table globe
- A small spherical model of the Earth designed for desk or table placement. These items demonstrate geographical knowledge alongside woodworking and metalworking skills.
18th Century Cartography: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I date an old map?
Dating relies on internal evidence such as printed publication dates, dedication texts, and historical place names shown within the cartography. Stylistic cues in the border ornamentation and typography also assist in determining the approximate decade of production.
Comparison with known works by cartographers listed on the sheet provides further chronological clarity.
Are these maps originals from the period?
The pieces listed are authentic period items produced during the eighteenth century or early nineteenth century using traditional printing and engraving methods.
They are genuine copperplate engravings rather than modern photographic reproductions.
How should I display framed maps?
Framed cartography requires placement away from direct sunlight to prevent fading of the ink and paper stock. Maintaining stable indoor humidity levels protects the paper from warping or becoming brittle.
Using conservation-grade backing materials during framing safeguards the sheet over time.
What is a county map?
A county map is a detailed geographical representation focusing on a specific administrative region within England, such as Cheshire, Gloucestershire or Yorkshire. These plates often show local roads, towns, topography and estate boundaries.
Publishers issued them individually or compiled them into national county atlases.