Catalog Archive
Auction 149, Lot 636

"A Chart, on Mercator's Projection, Containing the Track and Soundings of the Lion, the Hindostan and Tenders, from Turon-Bay in Cochin-China...", Barrow, John (Sir)

Subject: Eastern China

Period: 1796 (dated)

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

Color: Black & White

Size:
19.5 x 27.9 inches
49.5 x 70.9 cm
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This large chart was part of an account of George Macartney's travels to China. Macartney was Britain's first envoy to China, and was tasked with convincing Emperor Qianlong to ease restrictions on trade between Great Britain and China by allowing the British to have a permanent embassy in the country.

The chart extends from Turon Bay (present day Da Nang, Vietnam) up the coast of eastern Asia to the Gulph of Leao-Tung in the Whang-Hai or Yellow Sea (the Gulf of Bohai in the Yellow Sea). The track of the Lion, Hindostan, and Tenders is traced, with soundings, sea bottom classifications, temperature and barometric readings, dates, and assorted notes, such as Lion and Tenders parted from the Hindostan in the fog. China is divided into several provinces, and many towns and cities are named, including Beijing (here referred to as Pekin). A portion of the Great Wall of China is depicted and rivers are accompanied by notes on their courses and sources. Taiwan is depicted with incomplete borders to the east of the ships' track. Engraved by B. Baker and published on April, 12, 1796 by George Nicol.

References: Shirley (BL Atlases) G.BARR-1a-4.

Condition: B+

On a sturdy sheet with a "J. Whatman" watermark, a few tiny spots of foxing, and faint offsetting.

Estimate: $160 - $200

Sold for: $120

Closed on 5/21/2014

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