Coloured map of the Irish province of Munster taken from the Bassett & Chiswell edition of John Speed’s “Theatre of the Empire of Great Britain” published 1676. Certainly the most decorative map of the province, it contains plans of the cities of Limerick (Lymericke) and Corke (Corcke) along with a key identifying important landmarks. Engraved by Jodocus Hondius, the map is decorated with a strap-work title cartouche topped with the Irish coat of arms, two sea monsters, one of which being ridden (perhaps) by Saint Senan, a sailing ship and a local man astride the “Scale of Irish Miles”. A description of the province appears on the verso in English. Other than a repair to the bottom centrefold, some minor staining and a few nicks to the blank margins, the map is in very good condition. 38.5 cm x 51 cm