848 - HERMAN MOLL (1654–1732), JOHN BOWLES

HERMAN MOLL (1654–1732), JOHN BOWLES Map of Moscovy, Poland, Little Tartary and the Black Sea, London, 1729–1730 Copper engraving, hand-coloured in watercolour; laid down on modern paper. 62.5 x 98 cm. This map was created by Herman Moll (1654-1732), the renowned London geographer and cartographer, and published in 1730 by John and Thomas Bowles. It is notable for its detailed depiction of Russia, Poland, the neighbouring territories and the Black Sea region. Outline colouring is used to distinguish the territories. The map reflects the geopolitical situation in Eastern Europe and Western Asia in the early 18th century, after the age of Peter the Great, when Muscovy finally took shape as the Russian Empire. It highlights such significant regions as Muscovy, Poland and Little Tartary (the historical region north of the Black Sea), and carefully marks major cities, rivers and geographical features. In the lower right corner is a multi-figure cartouche with a portrait of Peter the Great beneath a double-headed eagle, surrounded by angels trumpeting Peter I’s victories. The map also has an inset ‘The Northern Part of Russia’ showing the course of the Volga, the mouth of the Don and the region adjoining the White Sea. Notable features of the map include detailed inscriptions and explanations by Moll himself. The map is part of the atlas regarded as Herman Moll’s most impressive work. Upon the buyer’s request, we are pleased to provide a general condition report for the Lot described above. However, as we are not professional conservators or restorers, we strongly advise prospective buyers to conduct their own inspection or consult a specialist or restorer of their choice for a comprehensive professional assessment. Any condition descriptions provided in the catalogue or through any correspondence are for guidance only and should not be considered a substitute for a firsthand evaluation. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD ‘AS IS’ IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE PUBLISHED IN THE CATALOGUE.