This drawing reproduces the colour original in the
Mayor's register held at the City of Bristol Record Office
In later centuries, antiquarians might present town maps in the context of a topographical description. Ricart's map of Bristol depicts the key topographical features of central Bristol, within the walls. Yet it is at the same time a somewhat idealized form, and was positioned between a mythical account of the ancient lineage of British kings – traced back to Trojan refugee Brutus (reputed founder of London) and culminating in the prince held to be the founder of Bristol – and a more historical list of pre-Conquest and post-Conquest rulers of England. Thus Bristol is portrayed as part of the ordained authority structure of the realm.
The circle of walls is punctuated by four sturdy and imposing gates, portals to a crossroads dividing the town into four equal quarters, the whole centering upon the High Cross, itself flanked on several sides by city churches that were a focus for communal gathering and a symbol of common values. The portrayal conveys a sense of balance, order, and orderliness; it appears an almost ritualistic space – a suitable setting for civic procession to emphasize, simultaneously, principles of solidarity and hierarchy. The town is divided into components, just as was the political structure of urban society, yet all are clearly integral parts of a whole, defined and held together as a single community by the cycle of walls.