Detail View: David Rumsey Historical Map Collection: Composite Map: (Facsimile) Rocque's Map of London. 1746.

Rocque, John

Pine, John

1746

Composite Map: (Facsimile) Rocque's Map of London. 1746.

London Topographical Society

London

Composite Map

246

400

2,437

This is considered one of the best facsimiles of the original Rocque Map of London, first published in 1746. 48 sheets, each pair joins to form one of the original 24 sheets.

London (England)

(Composite Map) (Facsimile) Rocque's Map of London. 1746.

7974.051

A 1 (a) - H 3 (b)

3

Emery Walker Ltd. Collotypers

Rocque, John

Pine, John

1919

(Facsimile) Rocque's Map of London. 1746. Original map titled "A plan of the cities of London and Westminster, and borough of Southwark."

Original published in October, 1746 by John Pine and John Tinney. Sheets arranged in rows 1-3 by column, A-H; each sheet printed in two pieces (a) above (b).

7974.000

City Atlas

25

44

58

7974051.jp2

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Rocque, John; Pine, John

This map is a facsimile of John Rocque's Map of London, originally published in 1746. It is a comprehensive, detailed representation of London from the mid-18th century, capturing the city at a time of significant growth and change. The map is a composite work consisting of 48 sheets that join together to form 24 original sheets, each printed in two pieces, and measures approximately 400 cm in width and 246 cm in height. The facsimile was produced by Emery Walker Ltd. Collotypers for the London Topographical Society.

Composition and Medium:
The map is engraved, showcasing intricate detailing of streets, landmarks, and the River Thames, which flows prominently through the center. The map's scale is 1:2,437, allowing for a high level of precision and detail. The engraving techniques used in the map highlight the topographical and architectural features of the city, making it a valuable resource for understanding London's historical landscape.

Style and Features:
The map is designed in a Rococo style, characterized by ornate cartouches and elaborate border decorations. These artistic elements reflect the aesthetic preferences of the 18th century and add a decorative dimension to the map. Notably, there are two decorative cartouches, one in the lower center featuring allegorical figures alongside the title information, and another likely including a dedication or additional notes.

Subject Matter:
The map meticulously details the streets, buildings, and open spaces of London. Key landmarks such as St. Paul's Cathedral, the Tower of London, and Westminster Abbey are depicted, along with numerous smaller churches and public buildings. The River Thames is depicted with various ships, illustrating its role as a vital artery for commerce and transportation.

Cultural and Historical Context:
Produced at a time when London was the burgeoning capital of a growing empire, the map captures the city just before the industrial revolution that would dramatically alter its landscape. The detail provided by Rocque reflects the city's importance as a political, economic, and cultural center. This period was marked by significant urban development, with Rocque's map documenting the expansion and organization of the city's streets and districts.

Inscriptions and Notable Features:
The map includes numerous inscriptions that identify streets, districts, and key landmarks, providing insight into the urban layout and the naming conventions of the time. The detailed depiction of gardens, parks, and rural areas surrounding the urban center highlights the contrast between the densely populated city and its less developed outskirts.

Significance:
Rocque's Map of London is considered one of the most accurate and detailed maps of its time. It serves as an important historical document, offering scholars and researchers a detailed view of 18th-century London. The map's precision and comprehensive coverage make it a valuable resource for studying the historical geography of London and the evolution of its urban landscape.

Publication Details:
- Title: Rocque's Map of London (Facsimile) - Authors: John Rocque, John Pine - Date: 1746 (Original), Facsimile Date Not Explicit - Size: 400 cm x 246 cm - Pub List No: 7974.000 - List No: 7974.051

This map is part of a city atlas published by the London Topographical Society, providing a facsimile of one of the most esteemed maps of historical London. Its detailed depiction offers a window into the past, capturing the city at a pivotal moment in its history.