forwarded from lis-maps -------- Original Message -------- Subject: Sheldon Tapestry Map now on exhibit Date: Wed, 23 Jan 2008 09:33:12 -0000 From: Nick Millea <[log in to unmask]> Reply-To: maps-l To: In June 2007, the Bodleian Library acquired at auction a major section of the Sheldon Tapestry Map of Gloucestershire, a fine example of cartography and decorative art from the sixteenth century. For the first time since its acquisition, the map will be on public display in the Library's Exhibition Room for four weeks, between 19 January and 23 February 2008. Woven in wool and silk, the Sheldon Tapestry Map for Gloucestershire depicts south Gloucestershire and parts of Wiltshire and Monmouthshire. The map is a part of the set of four famed 'Tapestry Maps' dating from the1590s. Commissioned by Ralph Sheldon for his home at Weston, Warwickshire, the series illustrates the midland counties of England: Worcestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire and Gloucestershire. The Bodleian Library now owns three fragments of the Gloucestershire tapestry, in addition to the Oxfordshire and Worcestershire tapestries, which were donated in 1809 by the antiquary Richard Gough. A third tapestry, which illustrates Warwickshire, is part of the Warwickshire Museum's collection. The acquisition of the Gloucestershire tapestry map makes it possible to reunite this substantial portion of the fourth map with two of the original set already owned by the Library. The four maps are of major significance for cartographic history, forming a unique representation of the landscape of the midland counties of England at a period when modern cartography was still in its infancy. Each tapestry has its titular county in the centre on a white background and named in red letters, the county border is shaded red and the surrounding counties are depicted in varying colours from yellow to shades of green. The maps still retain much of their original, vibrant colour, and demonstrate an interest in the depiction of landscape, rivers, and townscapes. The exhibition will be staged in the Bodleian Library Exhibition Room, 19 January to 23 February 2008 (Mondays-Fridays 09.00-17.00; Saturdays 09.00-16.30). Admission Free. See also: http://www.ouls.ox.ac.uk/news/2008_jan_18 With best wishes, Nick Millea _______________________________________________________ Nick Millea Map Librarian, Bodleian Library, Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3BG Tel: 01865 287119 Fax: 01865 277139 Email: [log in to unmask] Homepage: http://www.bodley.ox.ac.uk/guides/maps/ _______________________________________________________