"[Puzzle] Map of the United States", McLoughlin Bros.

Terrific Victorian period map puzzle with original box. Complete with all pieces, box, and full color map to aid in assembling the puzzle. The puzzle is dated 1887, but the Dakotas are shown separated so this puzzle is probably circa 1890. Original paper label on box that is reminiscent of a cigar box label. It combines the printing processes of multi-stone chromolithography, solid color zinc plate, and gold stamping to produce a beautiful image. McLoughlin Bros., Inc. was a New York publishing firm that pioneered the systematic use of color printing technologies in children's books, particularly between 1858 and 1920. The firm's publications served to popularize illustrators including Thomas Nast, William Momberger, Justin H. Howard, Palmer Cox, and Ida Waugh. By 1886, the firm published a wide range of items including cheap scrapbooks, large folio picture books, linen books, puzzles, games and paper dolls. It is rare to find a nineteenth century puzzle complete and in such nice condition.

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Condition: A

Puzzle is very good with only a couple pieces having small, unobtrusive chips along the outer edges. Printed map has moderate soiling, but still quite good. Box corners have some temporary repairs, light foxing and some soiling. One side of the top is split along both folds so that it flaps loosely.