A highly decorative and detailed 19th century Thomas Moule map of Leicestershire — with vignette views of Belvoir Castle, Ulverscroft Abbey and Donnington Castle — which appeared in Barclay’s Complete and Universal English Dictionary (London: G. Virtue, 1840s). The Moule county maps were unusual for the period in that they were highly decorative. The scientific rationality of the late 18th & early 19th century had seen a move away from the flamboyance of earlier map making, emphasizing instead, a greater desire for accuracy and detail. Thomas Moule, like many of his contemporaries, however, was drawn to a more simplistic, pre-industrial age. This was clearly reflected in his maps with their neo-Gothic borders, heraldic shields and views of ancient buildings; ironically, the Moule maps issued later in the 1840s were amongst the first to show the newly constructed railways. This is an original steel engraving with later hand colour. Printed area is approximately 19.5cms by 26cms. The map is in very good condition. The top and bottom margin are close, as issued, but still mountable without loss. Click on image for a better view. The item comes displayed in a ready to frame museum quality mount. Click on ‘Delivery Policy’ for postage costs. Guaranteed to be over 150 years old.
