This map is generally considered one of the most decorative maps of the British Isles ever published. Jan Jansson’s map is derived from that of John Speed first published in 1611. It is considered the more attractive engraving than the version issued by Joan Blaeu the previous year, bearing as it does the addition of compass lines radiating across the seas and the addition of an armorial in Ireland. It depicts Britain at the time of the Saxon Kingdoms displaying their boundaries and coats of arms. The seven kingdoms are Northumbria, Mercia, East Anglia, Essex, Kent, Sussex and Wessex. With an ornate title cartouche, the map is crowned by superb side panels illustrating the history of the Anglo-Saxon period. Jansson and his partner Hondius entered a race with Blaeu to produce a complete atlas of the British Isles. Blaeu was first, publishing his work in 1645, one year before that of Jansson. The most desirable map in the volume is this one offered here. Shirley (1991) 577; Van der Krogt, P. (1997-2010) 5000H:1B; Skelton (1970) 34.