This map illustrates the Bressay Sound in the Shetland Islands and shows the islands of Bressay and Noss and across to Lerwick on Mainland. The dedication to Daniel Earle of Nottingham is enclosed in a decorative cartouche emphasizing the importance of fisheries in the region. The chart is oriented with north to the right with part of a compass rose at bottom. Engraved by Herman Moll.

In 1679 Greenvile Collins was appointed Hydrographer to the King by Charles II. In 1681 he was appointed by the Admiralty to make a complete survey of the coasts of Great Britain. Prior to this date the charts used by English mariners were copies of Dutch charts that had many inaccuracies that was limited in scope. The task of surveying the entire coast was formidable and took nearly a decade. The Coasting Pilot, containing 48 charts, was first published in 1693 with editions continuing until 1792.

References: Verner (MCC-58), #40.

Condition: B

Printed on thick paper. There is a small separation at the upper centerfold that has been repaired with archival tape on verso. There are two small unobtrusive cuts in the lower portion of the image - one to the left of the dedication cartouche and one next to the centerfold. Minor staining in blank margins.