SEA CHART OF EASTERN LONG ISLAND SHOWING BLOCK ISLAND

AUTHOR:

DES BARRES, J. F. W.

TITLE:

[untitled map of the Long Island Sound]

CONDITION:

29” x 41 1/2”. Excellent condition.

DATE:

1781

DESCRIPTION:

The most notable nautical charts of Long Island appeared in the Atlantic Neptune of Joseph Frederick Des Barres. This famous atlas has been called “one of the most remarkable products of human industry that has ever been given to the world through the arts of printing and engraving.” The area of Long Island covered on the chart being offered here is essentially the ends of the two forks and the area around Gardiner’s Bay. This was a strategic location for the British fleet during the Revolutionary War because it enabled them to close off the eastern end of the Sound and contest the French and Americans for control of Block Island Sound and Narragansett Bay. Gardiner’s Island was used as a base by the British Admiral Arbuthnot.

Des Barres work has been called the “most splendid collection of charts, plans and views ever published,” and this is an excellent example of an important chart in pristine condition.

REFERENCES:

Inventory No. 8027