This lot of two fantastic coastal charts details the Connecticut coastline in Long Island Sound. The first sheet, dated 1848, features two charts depicting the Norwalk Islands. At left is a chart centering on Sheffield Island. The chart at right shows Cawkin's I. (Cockenoe Island) and several smaller islands to its west. The second sheet, dated 1849, spans from Minursen Island (Manursing Island) in New York north to Flat Neck Point, identifying several small islands and the mouths of the Byram and Mannock (Mianus) rivers, Bush's Harbor, and Chimney Corner. Both sheets feature plenty of navigational information, including depth soundings, bottom types, sailing directions, notes on the tides, and more. From trigonometrical surveys under the direction of F.R. Hassler, Superintendent of the Survey of the Coast of the United States. Triangulation by E. Blunt (first sheet) and J. Ferguson (second sheet); topography by C.M. Eakin; and hydrography under the command of G.S. Blake. Primarily engraved by S.T. Pettit.

These are very early examples printed on heavy paper and appear to have been a special copy presented to the "Pontifical States," as written in manuscript above the map. Also known as the Papal States, the Pontifical States were territories in Italy under the sovereign rule of the pope, originally established in the 8th century. The United States officially established diplomatic relations with the Pontifical States in August 1848, not long before this chart's publication date.

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Condition: B+

On sturdy, thick sheets with light toning and scattered foxing.