An early issue of Blaeu’s map of Wales, with fine colour

A very fine example of Blaeu's map of Wales, with large cartouches for the title and dedication (to Charles, Prince of Wales, later Charles II), the Royal Arms and five other armorials held aloft by cherubs. The two editions of this map with no text on the reverse are the first Latin and French editions of 1645-6, both published while the Civil War was being fought. Charles Stuart was never formally invested as Prince of Wales because of the war; at the time of publication he was commander of the English forces in the West Country, despite being only fifteen years old. He went into exile in 1646, only returning with the Restoration of 1660.