On offer: an original (i.e. not a later reproduction) scarce antique map "Plan of Dover Harbour."

DATE PRINTED: 1812.  

SIZE: The printed area including titles is approximately 23 x 18.5 cm, 9.25 x 7.25 inches (medium) plus margins. 

PROVENANCE:  A map published in 'Reports of the Late John Smeaton Made on Various Occasions, in the Course of his Employment as a Civil Engineer'. Smeaton died in 1792 and the reports are a fascinating insight into 18th century engineering and cover a vast amount of projects throughout Britain. ' by the Rev J. Goldsmith. 1812.

ARTIST/ENGRAVER: Engraved by Lowry from a drawing by J. Farey. John Farey Jr. (20 March 1791 – 17 July 1851) was an English mechanical engineering, consulting engineer and patent agent, known for his pioneering contributions in the field mechanical engineering. Wilson Lowry FRS (24 January 1762 – 23 June 1824) was an English engraver. Lowry specialised in making engraving of architectural and mechanical topics, and excelled in perspective views of machinery.

TYPE: Antique engraving printed on paper.

VERSO: There is nothing printed on the reverse side, which is blank.

CONDITION: Good.  Please check the scan for any blemishes prior to making your purchase. Virtually all antiquarian maps and prints are subject to some normal ageing due to use and time which is not significant unless otherwise stated. 

AUTHENTICITY: This is an authentic antique print, published at the date stated above. I do not offer reproductions. It is not a modern copy.  The term 'original' when applied to a print means that it was printed at the first or original date of publication; it does not imply that the item is unique.

RETURNS POLICY: I offer a no questions returns policy. All I ask is that you pay return shipping and mail back to me in original condition.

POSTAGE / SHIPPING COSTS: I only charge postage for the first print ordered. There is no additional postage charge if you order more than one print.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:   The Port of Dover is a cross-channel ferry, cruise terminal, maritime cargo and marina facility situated in Dover, Kent, south-east England. It is the nearest English port to France, at just 34 kilometres (21 mi) away, and is one of the world's busiest maritime passenger ports.  The port is divided into two main sections: the Eastern Docks serve as the main cross-channel ferry terminal, while the Western Docks contain a cruise ship terminal and a yacht marina along with cargo facilities.  The Port of Dover has a long history and possesses several listed buildings and structures. The port is owned and operated by the Dover Harbour Board, a statutory corporation formed by Royal Charter in 1606 by King James I. Most of the board members of the Dover Harbour Board are appointees of the Department for Transport. 

When a large portion of the Passing Tolls was allotted to Dover Harbour in 1756, there were great complaints from the ship owners who navigated the Channel that the harbour bar so frequently made the Port inaccessible. In consequence of those complaints, the Commission invited Mr. John Smeaton, engineer, who had then become famous by the completion of the great Eddystone Light House, to report how Dover Harbour could be improved and its acc'ommodation developed. He presented his report in 1769, wherein he recommended an extension of the South Pier, and an alteration in its form, together with other recommendations.  

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