Catalog Archive
Auction 123, Lot 277

"The State of Tennessee", Carey, Mathew

Subject: Tennessee

Period: 1814 (circa)

Publication: General Atlas…

Color: Hand Color

Size:
20.8 x 9.8 inches
52.8 x 24.9 cm
Download High Resolution Image
(or just click on image to launch the Zoom viewer)

Mathew Carey was a seminal figure in early American publishing; establishing the first publishing firm to specialize in cartography and issuing the first atlas devoted exclusively to American maps. He set up an elaborate cottage system of craftsmen for compiling, engraving, printing, and coloring maps. This practice was emulated by later American cartographic publishers such as John Melish and Henry S. Tanner. The American Atlas concept was also adopted by other publishers in both the United States and Europe.

This fine map of Tennessee shows the state at an early point in its development with only twelve organized counties in the Mero and Washington Districts. The majority of the state is shown to be Cherokee tribal territory. The map depicts a few settlements, forts, trails, and roads, two of which venture out into Cherokee country toward the Tennessee River.

References:

Condition: B

A sound example with a good impression. The toned centerfold, edges and a small hole just to the left of the title have been repaired on the verso.

Estimate: $500 - $700

Sold for: $900

Closed on 2/20/2008

Archived