Old Bay of Taranto, Italy Nautical Chart by Heather, 1802: Gulf of Taranto, Ionian Sea, Strait of Otranto

Exploring the Depths of History: The Bay of Tarento Chart by William Heather

Delve into the rich tapestry of Mediterranean maritime history with the exquisite 1802 chart, "The Bay of Tarento in Italy," published by the renowned London chartmaker William Heather. This chart is not merely a navigational aid but a portal to the past, capturing the intricate details of the Bay of Taranto in Puglia with remarkable precision. Oriented with east at the top, it features meticulous soundings, anchorages, and topographical nuances, making it a vital resource for understanding early 19th-century naval exploration in the region.

William Heather's contribution to cartography, particularly with his pioneering work in "Heather's New Mediterranean Pilot," marks a significant evolution in the mapping of Mediterranean ports. This chart, a product of Heather's ambition to surpass the earlier, cruder charts by French and Italian publishers, stands out with its finely engraved details by John Stephenson. It reflects a period when English cartography began to set new standards in accuracy and aesthetic form, making it a prized piece for collectors and historians alike.

The chart details not only the hydrographic aspects of the Bay of Taranto but also enriches our understanding of the area's geographical layout during the early 1800s. It highlights key locations such as the towns of Taranto, Pizzolo, and Remdemone, and the strategic water bodies like the rivers of St George and Little Passage. The inclusion of the islands of Pisco and St Pietro, along with significant maritime routes, offers insights into the socio-economic conditions of the time, particularly in terms of trade and defense.

Beyond its utility for navigation, the chart is a work of art in its own right. The signature monogram of John Stephenson, a noted London engraver, attests to the high level of craftsmanship that went into its creation. Each line and lettering on the chart is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing, making it a standout example of the artistry involved in 19th-century mapmaking.

Lastly, the historical significance of this chart extends beyond its immediate geographical focus. It serves as a key document in the study of Mediterranean naval history, offering a window into the naval prowess and cartographic skills of early 19th-century England. For enthusiasts of maritime history, collectors of rare maps, or scholars of cartographic studies, this chart is an invaluable addition, providing a tangible connection to the maritime heritage of the Mediterranean.

Notable Places on This Map

• Taranto
• Pizzolo
• Remdemone
• Rivers of St George and Little Passage
• Islands of Pisco and St Pietro

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Gulf of Taranto
• Ionian Sea
• Strait of Otranto
• Adriatic Sea
• Balkan Peninsula

Historical and Design Context

• Published by William Heather in London in 1802.
• Part of Heather's "New Mediterranean Pilot," the first English collection of Mediterranean ports.
• Finely engraved by John Stephenson, showcasing superior craftsmanship compared to earlier French and Italian versions.
• Represents an important phase in the evolution of nautical charting, particularly English contributions to Mediterranean mapping.
• Provides valuable insights into early 19th-century navigation and cartography in the Mediterranean region.

Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.

This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.

This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 50in (125cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

The model in the listing images is holding the 16x20in (40x50cm) version of this map.

The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.

If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.

Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.

This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.

This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you'd like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.

For most orders, delivery time is about 3 working days. Personalised and custom made maps take longer, as I have to do the personalisation and send it to you for approval, which usually takes a day or two.

Please note that for larger framed orders (over 40in/100cm), and some other framed sizes, the delivery time will be closer to 7-10 days.

If you need your order to arrive by a certain date, please contact me before you order so that we can find the best way of making sure you get your order in time.

I print and frame maps in 22 countries around the world. This means your map will be made locally, which cuts down on delivery time and reduces the chance of your map being damaged during delivery. There won't be any extra taxes or duties to pay, and we'll put less CO2 into the air.

All of my maps are well packaged and sent in a rugged tube if unframed, or surrounded by foam if framed.

I try to send out all maps within 1 or 2 days of receiving your order, though some products (like face masks or mugs) can take longer to make.

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My standard frame is a gallery style black ash hardwood frame. It is simple and quite modern looking. My standard frame is around 20mm (0.8in) wide.

I use super-clear acrylic (perspex/acrylite) for the frame glass. It's lighter and safer than glass - and it looks better, as the reflectivity is lower.

Six standard frame colours are available for free (black, dark brown, dark grey, oak, white and antique gold). Custom framing and mounting/matting is available if you're looking for something else.

Most maps are also available as a framed canvas. The map is printed on matte (not shiny) canvas, stretched over a box frame, and then 'floated' within a simple wood frame. The end result is quite beautiful, and there's no glazing in front of your map.

All frames are provided "ready to hang", with either a string or brackets on the back. Very large frames will have heavy duty hanging plates and/or a mounting baton. If you have any questions, please get in touch.

See some examples of my framed maps and framed canvas maps.

Alternatively, I can also supply old maps on canvas, foam board, cotton rag and other materials.

If you want to frame your map yourself, please read my map size guide first.