In the realm of cartography, few artifacts stir the imagination quite like ancient maps. One such treasure is the Cantivm Vernacule, a map of Kent, England, drawn in 1665.
The map’s title, “Cantivm Vernacule” translates from Latin to “Kent in the Vernacular.” This indicates that while the map was produced in the 17th century, its annotations or descriptions were in the everyday language of the time rather than the scholarly Latin commonly used in academic and official documents of the period.
1665 was a pivotal year in English history. The Great Plague of London was at its peak, and this context might have influenced the creation and use of such maps, perhaps for administrative, military, or even escape and quarantine purposes. Kent, being close to London, would have been crucial in these scenarios.
The use of vernacular in mapping is noteworthy, suggesting it was intended for a broader audience or for practical use by local people rather than just scholars or officials. While not as precise as modern maps due to the lack of advanced surveying tools, 17th-century maps like this one still offer valuable insights into land use, topography, and the socio-economic landscape of Kent.
The map includes contemporary place names, offering modern historians a snapshot of how places were referred to back in the day. By examining the land divisions, settlements, and perhaps even the omission of certain areas, we can infer aspects of the region’s economic activities, social structure, and cultural life.
The design was etched onto a copper plate, inked and pressed onto paper, then hand-coloured to achieve its final result.
The Cantivm Vernacule Kent map of 1665 is more than just a geographical layout; it’s a window into the past, revealing how people of Kent lived, worked, and navigated their world during a time of great upheaval. For historians, cartographers, and anyone fascinated by the evolution of human civilization, this map is a precious artifact that continues to teach us about our shared history.
#medieval #history #ancient
Connect with us on Redbubble.