|
||
|
|
|
|
This map of Oxfordshire, published around 1700, showcases the county along with an ornate display of the coats of arms of Oxford’s colleges. The map is richly decorated, reflecting the historical and academic significance of the area. Surrounding the map, there are detailed renderings of the arms associated with prominent colleges, each accompanied by cherubs bearing banners with the names and founding dates of the institutions.
On the left side, the arms of the following colleges are depicted:
- University College, displays a red shield with a gold cross pattée.
- Merton College, established in 1274, features a shield with red and white chevrons.
- Oriel College, founded in 1324, bears three gold lions on a blue field.
- New College, established in 1379, showcases a chevron between three red roses on a blue field.
- All Souls College, founded in 1437, is represented by a blue chevron between two golden fleurs-de-lis and a red rose.
- Brasenose College, founded in 1513, has a shield displaying quarters of a chevron and a lion, with additional details reflecting its historical connections.
- Christ Church, established in 1546, features a cross between quarters of red and white, highlighting its ecclesiastical roots.
- St. John’s College, founded in 1555, displays a blue shield with a golden lion and a central bezant, reflecting its later foundation.
On the right side, additional colleges are represented:
- Balliol College, founded in 1262, bears a blue shield with a white border.
- Exeter College, established in 1316, features a complex design of red, white, and blue quarters.
- Queen’s College, founded in 1340, displays golden eagles on a yellow field.
- Lincoln College, established in 1427, features a shield with quarters depicting a lion and a book.
- Magdalen College, founded in 1458, bears a blue field with a white fret, interspersed with golden fleurs-de-lis.
- Corpus Christi College, founded in 1517, displays quarters with a pelican and the arms of its founder.
- Trinity College, established in 1556, features a shield divided with a chevron and three floral emblems.
- Jesus College, founded in 1571, bears a red shield with golden deer, emphasizing its Welsh origins.
The map itself is meticulously detailed, with careful labeling of towns, rivers, and local features. The inclusion of coats of arms celebrates Oxford’s academic heritage, linking each college’s identity with its heraldic symbols. The decorative cherubs, scrollwork, and the vibrant use of color enhance the map’s appeal, making it both an informative and visually striking piece from mid-17th century England.
