Catalog Archive
Auction 170, Lot 719

"[Lot of 2] A Compendious Geographical and Historical Grammar: Exhibiting a Brief Survey of the Terraqueous Globe... [and] A Compendious Geographical Dictionary, Containing, a Concise Description of the Most Remarkable Places ... The Second Edition", Peacock, W.

Subject: Geography Books

Period: 1795 (published)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
3.4 x 5.3 inches
8.6 x 13.5 cm
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This is a very attractive, two volume geographical set consisting of:

The Geographical Grammar, which contains 13 folding maps drawn by John Russell. Ten are regional maps of Europe, along with one each of the World, United States, and the East Indies. The map States of America shows the United States boundary along the Mississippi River. It identifies 15 states as well as the Tennassee Government, which includes Army Lands. The text describes the major towns, rivers, and mountains of each country, as well as a general discussion on inhabitants and cultures. 408 pages.

The Geographical Dictionary contains 7 folding maps of the world, solar system, Africa, South America, North America, Asia, and Europe. The world map shows Tasmania still attached to Australia, however the rest of the world is fairly accurately portrayed, including the Alaskan coastline. The North America map most notably contains a River of the West, extending from Juan de Fuca and almost connecting to several rivers west of the Great Lakes, reminiscent of the elusive northwest passage. Cartographically, the United States is confined to east of the Mississippi River, Florida is divided into East and West and both are still a Spanish possession, and Texas is named. The book includes dictionary-style descriptions of historical anecdotes and the most important places within the four continents. Unpaginated, but of similar size to the first volume.

24mo, bound in red leather with gilt title and embellishments on spine, marbled end papers. A.E.G.

References:

Condition: A

Internally very clean and tight. Maps have occasional faint offsetting, otherwise fine. Bindings are near fine with only minor wear. A very attractive, matched pair.

Estimate: $450 - $550

Sold for: $475

Closed on 11/14/2018

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