Subject: Colonial United States and Canada
Period: 1755 (dated)
Publication: A Concise Description of the English and French Possessions in North-America
Color: Hand Color
Size:
23 x 16.5 inches
58.4 x 41.9 cm
Extremely rare dissected and linen backed folding map in original marbled-paper slipcase. Slipcase label titled "A Pocket Map of the English and French Dominions in North America, wherein The Lands Claim'd and Encroach'd by the French, and Their Forts erected thereon, are particularly laid down. The Whole exhibited at on View in different Colours. By Mr. Palairet, Agent to the States-General. London: Sold by Robert Sayer, opposite Fetter-Lane, Fleet-Street, 1755." Together with the pamphlet "A Concise Description of the English and French Possessions in North-America" (Second edition). The map and pamphlet were published simultaneously in English and French and provide a fascinating picture of the region on the eve of the French and Indian War. Map in beautiful original color. In the preface, Palairet notes "The method in which I have coloured it, will easily discover the English and French Possessions, as well the countries that are now the subject of contest between those two nations, as the forts which the French have built, or taken in the midst of the English Colonies, and in the countries claimed by the English." He goes further to explain the other colored features. The pamphlet describes the events leading up to the conflict in much detail. Together the map and pamphlet are very rare - Thomas Streeter believed his copy to be unique. Pamphlet without covers. Includes modern, two-part nesting case in blue cloth with blue leather spine with gilt title. All together a very fine set.
References: Sellers and Van Ee, map #56; Tooley (America), p. 62- #18, 1st state; Streeter Sale #850.
Condition: A+