A fine example of the fourth volume of Joan Blaeu’s ‘Theatrum Orbis Terrarum’, covering England and Wales with fine colouring, the title beautifully illuminated in gold. Blaeu’s first topographical atlas appeared in 1630 in one volume and was gradually expanded. By 1640 it was in three volumes and contained just 4 British Isles maps. His chief rival, the Hondius-Jansson atlas contained 18 maps. Both joined a race to make their fourth volumes a complete atlas of the British Isles. Blaeu was first, publishing his magnificent work in 1645, one year before that of Jansson’s. The work of Blaeu set a standard of design, beauty and quality that arguably has never been surpassed. This is an example of the second edition dated 1648 with the text entirely reset in the same font. Further improvements include the addition of the four cardinal points added to the borders. This example is in fact an early issue of the larger format ‘Atlas Major’ published in 1662, the largest and most desirable atlas ever published. The typographic title page at the beginning is here dated 1662 but the entire remaining contents are the same as the 1648 edition. The final 1662 issue collates slightly differently. Koeman (1967-70) Bl 44 & 56 pp. 178-80, 215-8; Shirley (2004) T.Bla 1j; Skelton (1970) 42; Van der Krogt (1997-2010) 2.302.