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

This is a lovely and unusual atlas complete with approximately 80 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. Also featured are two pages of presidential portraits, two pages showing agricultural production, 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. The maps in this atlas are uncommon for their late hand coloring, a laborious process that was largely abandoned two decades earlier. Small Folio, 207 pp. Hardbound in original, embossed maroon cloth boards with gilt title on the front cover. A very lovely example of this increasingly difficult to find atlas.

References:

Condition: B+

Maps and text are very good to near fine with light toning and some occasional small spots. The map of the United States has a small ink notation in the right blank margin and the title page has a 2.5" tear at top. Covers and spine are worn and bumped and the hinges are starting.