Catalog Archive
Auction 137, Lot 84

Unique Manuscript Map

"Map of Matrimony", Anon.

Subject: Cartographic Curiosity

Period: 1880 (circa)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
7 x 5 inches
17.8 x 12.7 cm
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Following the models spawned by German cartographers like Mathew Seutter and John Baptist Homann, this curious English manuscript map depicts an interesting view of marriage. Similar to Homann's map of the Kingdom of Love, this map provides a geographic framework for the imaginary land of matrimony. It outlines both the stages of relationships as well as the span of emotions associated with marriage - from the good to the bad. The names of countries ranges from Land of Courtship and Land of Cupid, to Land of Spinsters, Settlement Bay, and Desperation Point. This type of map, depicting life's passages through mapmaking, was very popular in 18th and 19th centuries.

References: Manasek, p. 82.

Condition: B+

Small stain in upper-right just entering map image.

Estimate: $200 - $250

Sold for: $150

Closed on 9/14/2011

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