Catalog Archive
Auction 161, Lot 285

Impressive Blueback Chart of the Florida Keys and Dry Tortugas

"The Bahama Banks and Gulf of Florida", Blunt, Edmund

Subject: Florida, Bahamas, Cuba

Period: 1847 (dated)

Publication:

Color: Black & White

Size:
48.7 x 38.7 inches
123.7 x 98.3 cm
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This impressive, two-sheet "blueback" chart covers much of Florida including the Keys and Dry Tortugas, the northern coast of Cuba, and part of the Bahamas. It was first issued in Blunt's 1827 maritime atlas and has been updated and significantly improved based upon the survey work of Colonel Abert (Topographical Engineers) and Commander Powel (Navy). The nautical information includes scores of soundings, hazards, currents, sea floor types, lighthouses, notes and exceptional coastal detail. Features an inset Chart of Key West by George Gauld, 12 coastal approach views, and 5 compass roses to aid in navigation. Backed with stiff blue paper.

References: cf. Phillips (Atlases) #3661-8.

Condition: B

An overall nice impression with damp stains along the left and right border with some light mildew stains. There are a handful of other small stains in the image and minor edge chips confined to the blank margins. A good example for this type of chart that was intended for heavy use.

Estimate: $1,600 - $2,000

Sold for: $1,200

Closed on 2/8/2017

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