This lot includes the rare Brown University Press facsimile of all 48 Blathwayt maps as well as Jeannette D. Black's terrific reference work. Compiled by British civil servant and politician William Blathwayt circa 1683, the collection of 35 engraved maps and 13 manuscript maps has been described as the first atlas of the British Empire. The maps focus on areas of colonial and commercial interest to the British government, primarily portions of the Americas and Africa (Bombay is depicted as well). Eight of the maps are in color. They are loose within a red-orange clamshell case. Black's reference work devotes attention to each of the maps in the atlas. Hardbound in orange cloth with gilt titles on spine and an illustrated dust jacket.

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Condition: B+

The maps are in near fine condition with minor creasing on the title page. The clamshell case has light shelf wear and a large stain on the front cover. Contents of the commentary are tight, and its covers have minor shelf wear. The dust jacket is price clipped and lightly sunned.