Catalog Archive
Auction 161, Lot 779

"The National Atlas of Historical, Commercial, and Political Geography, Constructed from the Most Recent and Authentic Sources", Johnston, Alexander K.

Subject: Atlases

Period: 1843 (circa)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
14.4 x 21.4 inches
36.6 x 54.4 cm
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This attractive atlas contains 41 double-page, tipped in maps consisting of the world (2), Europe (19), Asia (7), Africa (3), Americas (5), and Australia (5). This early edition does not include the 5 physical maps by Heinrich Berghaus and Gustav Kombst. Of particular interest is the map of the United States & Texas which prominently features the independent Republic of Texas. Typical of British maps of this period, the map is densely engraved with information including an incredible network of roads and trails, built and proposed railways, operational and proposed canals, and lighthouse locations. The territories of Wisconsin and Iowa are both depicted, with Iowa stretching between the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers and extending to the Canadian border. Texas is shown with its borders extending from the Rio Grande to the Arkansas, encompassing Santa Fe and beyond Pike's Peak and James Peak. All of the important settlements in Texas are noted including all the communities along the Rio Grande. A note in the bottom left corner states "The Independence of Texas was formally declared in March 1836. It was recognized by Great Britain in Novr. 1840; and has been acknowledged by the United States, France, Holland and Belgium." Also noteworthy are the excellent maps of New Zealand and Van Diemen's Land or Tasmania. The map of Tasmania is the most highly detailed that we have seen - it is usually shown as an inset on other maps of Australia from the period. Shows the divisions of Kent, Buckingham, Devon, Dorset, Cornwall, Glamorga, Cumberland, Monmouth, etc. A large unsettled region is unnamed in the west. This area will eventually be organized as Wellington, Russell, Lincoln, Montagu, Franklin, Montgomery and Arthur. Locates the towns of Hobart, George Town, Oatlands, Richmond and Bothwell Grantham. Includes scores of small villages and settlements, all connected by a network of wagon roads. The core of settlement is limited to the central portions. The Penal Colony in Port Arthur is not noted. The atlas also features a beautiful double-hemisphere world map with comparative rivers and mountains surrounding the two spheres. Includes an 11 page index. Rebound in red quarter leather and tips over marbled boards.

References: cf. Phillips (Maps) p. 1100.

Condition: B+

The maps are very good with occasional faint spots of foxing and staining. There is light soiling primarily confined to the top and bottom blank margins. Rebound with light wear to the ends of the spine and bumped edges on the boards. The original front cover title has been adhered to the front pastedown.

Estimate: $1,500 - $1,800

Sold for: $1,000

Closed on 2/8/2017

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