Catalog Archive
Auction 151, Lot 745

"Morse's General Atlas of the World. Containing Seventy Maps, Drawn and Engraved from the Latest and Best Authorities", Morse, Charles W.

Subject: Atlases

Period: 1856 (published)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
14.1 x 17.2 inches
35.8 x 43.7 cm
Download High Resolution Image
(or just click on image to launch the Zoom viewer)

This complete atlas contains 70 cerographic maps on 66 sheets with approximately half of the maps focused on the United States. The maps of North America and the United States feature large Utah, New Mexico and Nebraska territories, with Oregon and Washington Territory extending to the Continental Divide. The map of Texas shows county development confined to the eastern half of the state, with Presido, El Paso, and a large, unnamed Staked Plain occupying the west. The map of Florida shows the extent of surveying confined north of Tampa. Several of the state maps employ red overprinting to identify counties, roads, and railroads (presumably to be the most up-to-date at the time of printing). Outside of the United States, there is a fascinating Chart Showing the Recent Search for a North-West Passage which depicts the extensive effort in locating John Franklin, who searched for a Northwest Passage in 1845 and disappeared in 1847. Decorated by an elegant frontispiece featuring an explorer and vignettes from around the world. Elephant folio, rebound with new maroon cloth over original tan cloth boards with gilt title on front cover and marbled endpapers.

References: Phillips (A) #817.

Condition: B+

Maps are very good to near fine with light toning and occasional offsetting from opposing text. There is light scattered foxing on frontispiece, title page, and text. Previous owners' stamp and bookplate appear on title page. Spine still appears new and original cloth boards are moderately soiled and stained.

Estimate: $1,000 - $1,200

Sold for: $700

Closed on 11/19/2014

Archived