Britannia Depicta Or Ogilby Improv'd was the most popular and successful Ogilby derivative atlas, published in response to public demand for a small road atlas that could be easily carried by travelers. The atlas reproduced Ogilby's strip-style road maps and added individual county maps. It was published by Thomas Bowles in a series of editions between 1720 and 1764. The historical notes that accompany each map were compiled by John Owen, a respected lawyer and antiquarian. The maps were engraved by Emanuel Bowen who went on to become one of London's leading engravers and print sellers in the 18th century. The maps are embellished with coats of arms and contain immense detail and topographical information. A compass rose orients each map and useful landmarks include hills, bridges, rivers and streams, windmills, churches, markets, parks and forests, water wells and even gallows.

These copper engraved, Ogilby-style strip road maps include coats-of-arms and descriptive text by John Owen.

A. [The Roads from London to Aberistwith...] Extends from Worcester through Leominster to Prestaigne, Wales.
B. [The Road from London to Barwick...] Extends from Darlington through Durham and Newcastle-upon-Tyne to Morpeth.
C. [The Road from London to Bristol...] Extends from Marlborough through Axbridge to Huntspil.
D. [The Road from London to St. Davids...] Extends from Abingdon to Monmouth.
E. [The Road from London to Holy-Head...] Extends from Lichfield to Chester.

References: Shirley (BL Atlases) T.BOW-1a.

Condition: B+

Very light soiling and toning, with a few minor edge tears. There is a short tear that enters 1/2" into the image on the "Road from London to St. Davids."