Old Port of Bastia Nautical Chart by Heather, 1802: Corsica, Soundings, Navigational Aids

Unveiling the Nautical Splendor of "The Port of Bastia in Corsica"

Embark on a historical voyage with the exquisite nautical chart, "The Port of Bastia in Corsica," crafted by the esteemed cartographer William Heather in 1802. This chart is not merely a navigational tool but a window into the maritime intricacies of the early 19th century. Heather, renowned for his meticulous detail and precision, presents a chart that is both a functional guide for sailors and a fascinating artifact for historians and collectors. The map's orientation, with southwest at the top, deviates from conventional cartographic norms, inviting viewers to see the world through the unique perspective of maritime navigators of that era.

Navigational Elegance and Topographical Detail

Heather's chart is distinguished by its detailed depiction of soundings, topographical features, and anchorages, crucial for safe navigation around the rugged Corsican coast. The soundings, measured in fathoms, are intricately plotted to provide an accurate understanding of underwater terrain, essential for preventing maritime mishaps. This map not only charts the physical landscape but also encapsulates the challenges and skills involved in 19th-century seafaring, reflecting the reliance on such charts for safe passage through the treacherous Mediterranean waters.

A Cartographic Rarity from Heather's New Mediterranean Pilot

This chart is a prized example from "Heather's New Mediterranean Pilot," a collection known for its rarity and cartographic excellence. The series is celebrated for enhancing the safety and efficiency of Mediterranean navigation through detailed, accurate maritime charts. The Port of Bastia, a vital harbor in Corsica, is depicted with such precision that it serves as a testament to Heather's commitment to cartographic detail and his significant contribution to nautical charting.

Historical and Geographical Context

The Port of Bastia, strategically located on the northeastern coast of Corsica, has been a historical beacon of maritime activity. This chart not only serves as a navigational aid but also as a historical document that captures the essence of Bastia during a time when maritime trade and navigation were pivotal to regional prosperity. The inclusion of coastal towns, harbors, and other navigational aids like compass roses and currents, highlights the bustling maritime activity and the strategic importance of Bastia in Mediterranean maritime routes.

Collectible Appeal and Educational Value

For collectors and enthusiasts of maritime history, this chart is a treasure trove of information and a rare collectible item that embodies the art and science of traditional cartography. Its educational value is immense, offering insights into the techniques of old-world mapmaking and the evolution of nautical navigation. Owning this chart is akin to possessing a piece of maritime history, offering a tangible connection to the voyages, explorations, and maritime endeavors of the early 19th century.

This chart of "The Port of Bastia in Corsica" by William Heather is more than just a map; it is a historical artifact that continues to inspire and educate, bridging the past with the present in the rich tapestry of maritime history.

Notable Places on This Map

• Corsica
• France
• Italy

Notable Features & Landmarks

• The Port of Bastia
• Soundings (numbers showing water depths in fathoms)
• Navigational aids (compass rose, currents, water channels, etc.)
• Some topographical features and anchorages

Historical and Design Context

• Created by William Heather in 1802
• Part of Heather's New Mediterranean Pilot
• Map is oriented with southwest at the top
• An accurate and detailed nautical chart of the Port of Bastia in Corsica
• Extremely rare, first example of the chart seen by the person who wrote the extra notes

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.

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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.

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