This fine rare map of Northampton accompanied John Morton’s ‘The Natural History of Northampton-Shire’ published in 1712. This account was the first book to give any account of its natural history and antiquities. The map is one of only a very few of the English counties that were remarkably enhanced by the depiction of coats of arms, in this case 96 in all. The ‘Explication’ highlights the cities, market towns, villages and noblemen’s seats although no sign is applied to the latter. Parks and bridges are depicted as are ‘Mr. Ogilbys Roads’ and those between market towns. The map is dedicated to the Right Honourable Charles Earl of Peterborough and is engraved by John Harris (fl.1686-1730) thought to have been a native of the county. Provenance: private English collection. Upcott (1968) pp. 1003-4; Whittaker (1948) 158; Worms & Baynton-Williams (2011).