Middlesex Maps

37x24 cm

MIDDLESEX. Published by Pigot & C^o.24 Basing Lane, London, & Fountain S^t.Manchester.
Engraved on Steel by Pigot & Son Manchester
James Pigot produced the first National Directory and the maps that accompanied his directories represented a technological advance in printing, being engraved on a steel plate rather than copper. Steel plates were less subject to wear and the development of tools to enable the engraver to work on steel extended the useable life of the plate and allowed the engraver to cut finer lines and show more detail. It is likely that Pigot included a finely engraved and detailed cartouche of a notable local landmark to demonstrate the advantages of this new technology.
This series of maps were first issued in parts from 1826, beginning with the home counties. They appeared in directories shortly after and in Atlas form Pigot & Co,s British Atlas of the counties of England…from c.1830. Production continued under various titles by Pigot and his partner and successor, Slater until 1857.
Includes a vignette of St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Good example in original hand colour from the first edition published in Pigot & Co's British Atlas the First Part comprising London and the home counties issued without title page or text in 1826.