NW Saypan, Ladrone or Marian Islands. Anson Voyages c1748

by Anson, George

18thC antique print. A view of the N.W. side of Saypan one of the Ladrones or Marian Islands.

Original copperplate engraving published in London c1748 for A Voyage Round the World in the Years MDCCXL, I, II III, IV (1740,1,2,3,4) by George Anson Esquire - "the story of a remarkable voyage extremely well told".

Between 1739 and 1744 Commodore George Anson (1697-1762), led a squadron of eight ships on a mission to disrupt or capture the Pacific Ocean possessions of the Spanish Empire. Circumnavigating the world, he returned to Britain from China after capturing the Manila Galleon (Spain's regular crossing of the Pacific Ocean between the Spanish Crown's Viceroyalty of New Spain in Mexico City and its Asian territories, known as the Spanish East Indies). Appointed Admiral of the British fleet, Lord Anson initiated many reforms in the navy.

With fine later colour, this long engraving has wide margins top and bottom, but 15 to 20mm margins at left and right. With 2 vertical folds to accommodate a smaller publication, there is slight damage at top right of page and soiling along left vertical edge. Page 305 x 435mm (12.6 x 15.25 inches). To intaglio impression measures 225 x 515mm (8.8 x 20.25 inches).