Catalog Archive
Auction 131, Lot 802

"A Sketch of a Journey from Zhe-Hol in Tartary by land to Pekin and from thence by water to Hang-Tchoo-Foo in China", Nicol, George

Subject: China

Period: 1796 (dated)

Publication: An Authentic Account of an Embassy from the King … to the Emperor of China

Color: Hand Color

Size:
17.8 x 25 inches
45.2 x 63.5 cm
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This scarce map records the first attempt by the British to negotiate more favorable trade agreements with the Chinese emperor. The 1792 embassy of Lord McCartney was granted an audience with Emperor Qianlong, but failed to secure the agreements. The map follows the Grand Canal from Hangzhou (here Hang-Tchoo-Foo) to Beijing (here Pekin), the longest ancient canal in the world. The official courier stations, each placed at intervals of 35 to 45 km, are noted along the route. Engraved by B. Baker and Islington and published from London on "April the 12th, 1796" by George Nicol. Map drawn by J. Barrow.

References:

Condition: A

Beautiful example with a fine image and very wide margins. A little foxing at extreme edges, well away from map image.

Estimate: $400 - $500

Sold for: $250

Closed on 3/17/2010

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