Designed for the imaginative child in all of us, this beautifully produced coloring book presents a collection of thirty county maps of England and Wales. The maps were originally produced in the early seventeenth century by the cartographic engraver William Hole to accompany the poem Poly-Olbion by Michael Drayton. Divided into thirty songs, the poem celebrates the landscape and history of each country in the region. Arguably the strangest maps of Britain ever designed, the accompanying illustrations depict the familiar rolling countryside as a playful fairyland, bustling with otherworldly beings. Every topographical feature is anthropomorphized, so that hills, for example, are represented as stout country gentlemen, rivers as water nymphs, and forests as elegant huntresses.
Collected into four volumes, each county is represented here in double-page spreads, and this unique coloring book allows you to bring these unusual settings to vibrant life on high-quality paper suitable for more than just crayons or pencils, but even watercolors. This is a coloring book that also tells the story of medieval England and Wales, and it will be a something to keep and treasure as a complex, endlessly rewarding work of art.
Discover the enchanting world of Albion's Glorious Ile, a unique hand-coloring book that invites you to reimagine the landscapes of 17th-century England and Wales. Based on the iconic maps created by William Hole for Michael Drayton's epic poem "Poly-Olbion," this coloring book offers a fascinating journey through British history and folklore. More than just a coloring book, this is a portal to a bygone era, a world where geography and imagination intertwine. William Hole's maps, originally designed to accompany Drayton's poetic celebration of the British landscape, are brought to life in intricate detail. Explore thirty county maps, each a double-page spread, showcasing the topographical features of England and Wales as never before seen. Hills transform into stout country gentlemen, rivers flow as graceful water nymphs, and forests stand tall as elegant huntresses. Every page is filled with whimsical characters and allegorical figures, making this coloring book a truly unique artistic experience. Imagine breathing color into these historical landscapes. The high-quality paper is designed to accommodate a variety of coloring mediums, from classic crayons and colored pencils to vibrant watercolors, allowing you to create your own personal masterpiece. Let your creativity flow as you bring these extraordinary settings to life with your own unique vision. This coloring book is not only a relaxing and engaging activity but also a captivating way to learn about the history and culture of medieval England and Wales. Published by Unicorn Publishing Group in 2016, "Albion's Glorious Ile: A Hand-Colouring Book from the Songs of Poly-Olbion" is more than just a pastime; it's a collector's item, a work of art that will be treasured for years to come. The book, with its 64 pages of intricate designs, weighs in at 594 grams, making it a substantial and satisfying artistic endeavor. Whether you are a seasoned artist, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for a creative outlet, this coloring book offers a rewarding and immersive experience. Delve into the whimsical world of William Hole's maps, rediscover the beauty of the British countryside, and create your own vibrant interpretation of "Albion's Glorious Ile." It is a perfect gift for anyone who appreciates history, art, or the magic of coloring. Unleash your inner artist and embark on a colorful adventure through the heart of England and Wales with this exceptional coloring book!