Catalog Archive
Auction 130, Lot 866

"Tunison's Peerless Universal Atlas of the World", Tunison, H. C.

Subject: Atlases

Period: 1892 (dated)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
12.3 x 14.3 inches
31.2 x 36.3 cm
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This is a lovely and unusual atlas complete with approximately 90 wax engraved, hand colored maps and diagrams, most with decorative borders and some with vignettes. Thirty-nine maps relate to the United States. The map of Oregon, Nevada and California is particularly nice with insets of Yosemite and the Redwoods. Most of the maps are printed on both sides. Also featured are two pages of presidential portraits, a page depicting methods of travel, and numerous engravings showing the diverse civilizations and cultures of the world. The last map is "Map of the Regions about the Unknown North Polar Sea Showing the Latest Exploring Expeditions." These maps are uncommon for their late hand coloring, a laborious process that was largely abandoned two decades earlier. Small Folio, 232 pp. Hardbound in original, embossed brown cloth boards. This is the 1886 edition updated to 1892. A very lovely example of this increasingly difficulty to find atlas.

References:

Condition: A

The covers are very good. The maps are generally fine save for an occasional marginal tear and the double page California which is split. Original tissue guard over the frontispiece.

Estimate: $350 - $450

Sold for: $425

Closed on 12/2/2009

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