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

This is a lovely and unusual atlas with approximately 80 wax engraved, hand colored maps and diagrams, most with decorative borders and some with vignettes. Thirty-seven maps relate to the United States. The map of California, Oregon & Nevada 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. Please note that this example is missing pp. 79-80 which are maps of Louisiana/Mississippi and Florida, as well as the title page.

Small Folio, 207 pp. Hardbound in original, embossed maroon cloth boards with gilt title and illustration on the front cover.

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Condition: B+

Maps are generally good to very good with some pleasant light toning, occasional soiling, and a few pencil notations mostly in the blank margins. The map of Georgia & South Carolina has been trimmed in the left blank margin and has nearly separated. Covers and spine show light wear with a chip at the bottom of the spine. The front hinge is starting and the back hinge is nearly perished.