Finely coloured carte-a-figures map of England and Wales taken from Latin Edition of John Speed’s “Theatre of the Empire of Great Britain” published by John Sudbury and George Humble in 1616. This first state example, engraved by Jodocus Hondius, only appeared in editions of the Theatre until 1627, after which it was replaced by a new plate engraved by Abraham Goos and dated 1632. The map, which includes a table listing details to be found in each Shire of England and Wales, is decorated on the sides with eight figures in period dress illustrating men and women from four classes of society. Other decorative features comprise sea monsters, the royal coat of arms and sailing ships. A description of the kingdom appears on the verso in Latin. Other than some minor reinforcement to the edges of the blank margins, the map is a fine, strong, dark impression in excellent condition. 38 cm x 51 cm