Old Port of Beirut Nautical Chart by Heather, 1802: Lebanon, Syria, Detailed Soundings

Delve into the historical allure of the Mediterranean with the "Port of Beirout in Syria," a masterful creation by the esteemed British hydrographer William Heather. Published in London in 1802, this chart not only showcases Heather's dedication to maritime navigation but also marks a significant English contribution to Mediterranean cartography. Oriented uniquely with east at the top, this chart is a fascinating artifact for both historians and maritime enthusiasts. It meticulously details the coastline of Beirut, then part of Syria, now Lebanon, capturing the strategic maritime routes that have been pivotal in the history of Mediterranean trade and navigation.

A Testament to Cartographic Excellence

William Heather's work stands out for its precision and aesthetic quality. This chart is part of Heather's ambitious project, "The New Mediterranean Pilot," which was the first English endeavor to systematically chart the ports of the Mediterranean—a region already well-documented by French, Italian, and Spanish cartographers. Heather's charts are renowned for their fine engraving, a testament to the high standards of craftsmanship in early 19th-century British cartography. This particular chart, engraved by John Stephenson, features detailed soundings, anchorages, and topographical nuances, making it not only a tool for navigation but also a work of art.

Navigational Insights of the Early 1800s

The chart reveals intricate details about the port of Beirut, offering soundings and navigational aids that highlight the complexities of maritime travel and trade during that era. These features were crucial for sailors navigating the treacherous waters of the Mediterranean, providing them with essential information to approach the bustling port safely. The inclusion of such detailed maritime data reflects the significant role Beirut played as a maritime hub and illustrates the broader geopolitical and economic contexts of the Mediterranean region during the early 1800s.

Rarity and Historical Significance

This chart is not merely a navigational aid but a rare collector's item. As part of "The New Mediterranean Pilot," it represents one of the earliest English attempts to chart the Mediterranean ports, a venture that began well after similar efforts by other European nations. The rarity of Heather's charts, especially those detailing the Mediterranean, adds immense value for collectors and historians alike. This particular chart of Beirut is a coveted piece, seldom seen on the market, making it a prized possession for any collector of rare maps or maritime history aficionados.

A Portal to the Past

Owning this chart is like possessing a portal to the past, offering a glimpse into the maritime culture of the early 19th century. It serves as a bridge connecting the present to the time when Beirut was a thriving port under Ottoman rule, playing a crucial role in the economic and cultural exchanges between the East and the West. For those enchanted by the rich tapestry of Mediterranean history, or for anyone who appreciates the art and science of antique cartography, this chart is an invaluable acquisition, promising to enrich any collection with its historical gravitas and exquisite craftsmanship.

Notable Places on This Map

• The coastline of Beirut, Lebanon, and the surrounding area.

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Detailed soundings and navigational aids.
• Topographical features and anchorages.

Historical and Design Context

• Created by William Heather in 1802.
• Part of "The New Mediterranean Pilot," the first English attempt at a collection of ports of the Mediterranean.
• Finely engraved chart, notable for its detailed coastline and soundings.
• Rare example of an early English attempt at charting Mediterranean ports.
• Engraved by John Stephenson, showcasing high standards of craftsmanship in early 19th-century British cartography.

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.

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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.

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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.

My standard frame is a gallery style black ash hardwood frame. It is simple and quite modern looking. On maps up to 36 inches (91cm) the frame is 1.5-3cm (0.6in to 1in) wide. I use thicker frames on larger maps - usually between 35 and 60mm (1.4in to 2.4in).

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My maps are extremely high quality reproductions of original maps.

I source original, extremely rare maps from libraries, auction houses and private collections around the world, restore them at my London workshop, and then use specialist giclée inks and printers to create beautiful maps that look even better than the original.

My maps are printed on acid-free archival matte (not glossy) paper that feels very high quality and almost like card. In technical terms the paper weight/thickness is 10mil/200gsm. It's perfect for framing.

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Map personalisation

If you're looking for the perfect anniversary or housewarming gift, I can personalise your map to make it truly unique. For example, I can add a short message, or highlight an important location, or add your family's coat of arms.

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I use a unique process to restore my maps that is massively time consuming and labour intensive. Hunting down the original maps can take months. I use state of the art and eye-wateringly expensive technology to scan and restore the maps. As a result, I guarantee my maps are a cut above the rest - that's why I can offer a no-quibble refund.

Almost all of my maps look amazing at large sizes (200cm, 6.5ft+) and I can frame and deliver them to you as well, via special oversized courier. Contact me to discuss your specific needs.