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Radnor, Breknoke, Cardigan and Carmarthen...: Lea & Willdey, c.1730

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  • Title: RADNOR, BREKNOKE, CARDIGAN And CARMARTHEN, described by CS. Corrected and Amended with many Additions
  • Author: Philip Lea & George Willdey
  • Date: c.1730
  • Condition: Rust staining present along margin into image; old manuscript tile on verso results in minor show-through 
  • Inches: 18 3/8 x  14 3/8 [Image]
  • Centimeters: 46.67 x 36.51[Image]
  • Product ID: 308430

This finely engraved map is an outstanding example of early 18th-century British cartography, published by Philip Lea. The map meticulously delineates the historic counties of Radnorshire, Brecknockshire, Cardiganshire, and Carmarthenshire in Wales, with county boundaries highlighted in original hand color. Rich in detail, the map features an intricate network of towns, villages, rivers, and topographical features, all rendered with remarkable clarity. In the upper left corner, four inset plans depict the principal towns—Radnor, Brecknock, Cardigan, and Carmarthen—each accompanied by coats of arms, providing valuable insight into the urban geography and heraldry of the period. The decorative title cartouche in the lower left corner adds an elegant touch, while a scale of miles and a descriptive key further enhance its utility. The map is surrounded by a fine decorative border and generous margins, typical of Lea's work. This piece not only serves as an important historical document but also exemplifies the artistry and precision of English mapmaking in the early 1700s.

Background on Creator(s)

Philip Lea (c. 1660–1700) was a prominent English cartographer, globemaker, instrument maker, printer, and publisher active in London during the late 17th century. He apprenticed with Robert Morden in 1675 and later collaborated with leading cartographers of his era, including Herman Moll, John Ogilby, John Seller, and John Overton. Lea was known for both producing original maps and revising or reissuing the works of others, particularly the county maps of Christopher Saxton. He operated from several London locations, notably the "Atlas & Hercules" in Poultry and later in Cheapside. After his death in 1700, his widow Ann Lea continued the business for another 25 years, further cementing the Lea family's influence in British cartography.

George Willdey (c. 1676–1737) was a notable English optician, instrument maker, and map and globe seller active in London in the early 18th century. Willdey acquired copper plates from earlier mapmakers, including Christopher Saxton and John Ogilby, and published updated versions of their maps. He was renowned for his entrepreneurial flair, operating a well-known shop at the corner of Ludgate Street and St. Paul’s Churchyard. Willdey’s business offered a wide array of scientific instruments, maps, globes, and curiosities, making him a central figure in the London map trade of his time. His publications were often lavishly advertised and he was known for his innovative marketing, which helped popularize maps and globes among a broader public. After his death, his son Thomas Willdey continued the business.

Both Lea and Willdey played significant roles in the dissemination and commercialization of maps and scientific instruments in late 17th- and early 18th-century London, shaping the development of English cartography and map retailing.