Old Map of England & Wales in 1958 by L.G. Bullock - Battles, Castles, City Coats of Arms

This richly illustrated historical map of England and Wales was created by the cartographer L.G. Bullock in 1958, and belongs to a tradition of pictorial maps that turn geography into storytelling. Rather than a plain road map, Bullock's chart weaves together centuries of history, decorating the coastline and countryside with drawings of castles, churches, ships and sea creatures, so that the map reads as much like a history lesson as a guide to place.

Among the towns and cities picked out across England are Hastings, Lincoln, Bath, St Albans, Chesterfield, Grimsby and Hartlepool, while Wales is represented by Cardiff, Swansea, Newport, Wrexham and Bangor. Around the map's edge Bullock has added the coats of arms of various cities, and scattered across the interior are notes on famous historical events, including the story of Boadicea's rebellion against Roman rule and the compiling of the Domesday Book. Mountains and valleys are rendered pictorially, and an ornate compass rose and cartouche complete the design.

This kind of map makes a memorable gift for a history enthusiast, a retirement present for a teacher, a housewarming gift for a new home in England or Wales, or a Christmas present for anyone who enjoys tracing the story of these islands. The engraved lettering, castle vignettes and heraldic detail have all been carefully restored so the intricacy of Bullock's original artwork is preserved in every print.