Old Port of Hercules, Italy Nautical Chart by Heather, 1802: Tuscany Coastline, Fort Point

The Port of Hercules: A Nautical Chronicle of 1802

Introduction to the Map

The Port of Hercules (Ercole), a meticulously detailed nautical chart from 1802, captures the essence of the Tuscan coast during a pivotal era in maritime history. Crafted by the esteemed British hydrographer William Heather, known for his precise coastal cartography and his role as Hydrographer to the Admiralty starting in 1795, this map is not just a navigational tool but a historical artifact. It intricately depicts the port of Ercole, revealing not only the geographical layout but also the bustling maritime activity of the time. The inclusion of the nearby town of Orbetello adds a broader regional perspective, making this map a fascinating study for both historians and cartography enthusiasts.

Detail and Design of the Map

Heather's map is a testament to the art of early 19th-century mapmaking, characterized by its hand-drawn and colored details. The chart is rich with topographical features such as mountains, forts, and buildings, each carefully placed to guide the mariners of the time. Notably, the map includes precise soundings – measurements of water depth crucial for navigation – which are meticulously noted throughout the port's waters. These soundings not only highlight the map's practical use but also reflect the meticulous attention to detail that was paramount in naval charts of this period.

Navigational Features and Historical Context

This chart is particularly valuable for its depiction of strategic maritime locations such as Fort Point, Port Philip, and various redoubts that played significant roles in naval defense and trade. The inclusion of these features provides insight into the military and economic priorities of the time. Furthermore, the map's portrayal of the Sand Banks and the Well indicates common navigational hazards and essential resources, respectively, offering a glimpse into the challenges faced by sailors navigating these waters.

Broader Regional Implications

Beyond its immediate utility for navigation, the map serves as a cultural and historical snapshot of the Tuscan region. By showing cities like Livorno, Pisa, and Grosseto, the map situates the Port of Hercules within the larger context of Tuscany's maritime landscape. The detailed representation of the islands of Elba and Giglio further enriches this regional perspective, providing a broader understanding of the area's maritime geography and its significance in regional trade and navigation networks.

Legacy and Significance

Today, the map stands as a significant document, illustrating the skill and craftsmanship of William Heather and the cartographic standards of his time. For collectors and historians, it offers a vivid portal back to Italy's nautical past, while for maritime enthusiasts, it provides detailed insights into the navigational challenges and solutions of the early 1800s. The Port of Hercules map is not only a piece of history but a continuing source of fascination and study, reflecting the enduring allure of historical cartography and its ability to inform our understanding of the past.

Notable Places on This Map

• Port Hercules
• Sand Banks
• Well
• Bank
• Fort Point
• Port Philip
• Redoubt
• P: Redoubt
• Pt Orbitello

Notable Features & Landmarks

• The map shows the coastline of Tuscany
• The map also shows the locations of several towns and cities, including Livorno, Pisa, and Grosseto.
• The map is drawn in a highly detailed style, and it includes a wealth of information about the Port of Hercules and the surrounding area.

Historical and Design Context

• Title: The Port of Hercules
• Mapmaker/Publisher: William Heather, a British hydrographer appointed Hydrographer to the Admiralty in 1795.
• Date: 1802
• Design or Style: The map is a detailed and accurate representation of the port of Ercole, hand-drawn and colored.
• Historical Significance: The map is a valuable historical document that provides a detailed snapshot of the port of Ercole in 1802, showcasing the skill and craftsmanship of William Heather.

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.

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My standard frame is a gallery style black ash hardwood frame. It is simple and quite modern looking. My standard frame is around 20mm (0.8in) wide.

I use super-clear acrylic (perspex/acrylite) for the frame glass. It's lighter and safer than glass - and it looks better, as the reflectivity is lower.

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