Historic Map of London by John Rocque Sells for Nearly £85,000 at Auction
A rare and impressive early 18th-century cartographic masterpiece of London recently garnered significant attention at auction, realizing a remarkable £84,736 (approximately $111,987 USD), well above its pre-sale estimate of £30,000. The auction was held by Forum Auctions on September 24, and the map’s impressive provenance and meticulous design contributed to its record-breaking result.
A Landmark in London Cartography
The map in question is a monumental 24-panel engraved plan of the City of London, created by renowned cartographer John Rocque in 1746. This enormous, highly detailed chart illustrates London from Hyde Park to Limehouse in the west and extends from New River Head to Walworth in the north and south. It is celebrated as a prime example of Rocque’s pioneering work in urban mapping during the Georgian era.
Detailed Description and Features
The cartographic work comprises a key map—an engraved double-page illustration—accompanied by 24 double-page engraved sheets that collectively form one of the largest maps of London ever produced. The sheets measure approximately 715 by 520 millimeters each, and when combined, the entire map spans approximately 2.13 meters by 3.61 meters (83¾ by 142 inches).
The map is distinguished as a rare First State—prior to the addition of Chesterfield House on sheet A2—making it especially valuable for collectors and historians. The engravings were executed by Richard Parr on laid paper that bears large Strasbourg Lily watermarks and roman numeral countermarks, indicative of high-quality materials used in the 18th century.
While the map shows signs of age—including scattered spots, minor toning, small tears, soft creases, and mottling—the overall condition remains exceptional. Key features include a detailed street layout, notable buildings, and infrastructural elements such as roads and bridges, offering a vivid snapshot of London’s early Georgian landscape.
Additional Related Work
The auction also featured Rocque’s lesser-known yet significant work—an eight-sheet reduction of the larger map, produced circa 1755 or later. This version, printed on thick laid paper with similar watermarks, presents a scaled-down but equally detailed view of London, including recent developments like Westminster Bridge and related buildings. Although some plates exhibit signs of wear and possible re-burnishing, this scarce map complements the larger version and is a rare find in the auction market; no similar sales have been recorded since 1999.
Historical Significance
Initiated in March 1737 and completed over nine years, Rocque’s comprehensive 26-inch-to-one-mile map marked a milestone in urban cartography. It captures London during a period of rapid growth and development in the early Georgian era, serving as an invaluable resource for historians, urban planners, and collectors alike.
Explore the Map in Detail
For those interested in examining the map and its intricate details, a high-resolution version is available online. Visit this link to view an enlarged image of the chart and appreciate the craftsmanship and historical richness of Rocque’s work.
Conclusion
The recent sale of John Rocque’s historic London map underscores its enduring importance in the world of cartography and British history. As an exceptional early example of detailed urban mapping, it stands as a testament to Rocque’s skill and the growth of London in the 18th century, attracting collectors and institutions worldwide.
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