Catalog Archive
Auction 186, Lot 471

NO RESERVE

"Bordeaux", SDUK Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge

Subject: Bordeaux, France

Period: 1832 (dated)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
14.9 x 12.1 inches
37.8 x 30.7 cm
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The beginning of the nineteenth century saw a period of rapid market growth and innovation in the map publishing world. Increased literacy and public interest in new frontiers and colonies overwhelmed the market because it was oriented toward the small, affluent market of the previous century. With the intent to fill this void, The Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge (SDUK) was founded in 1828 in London, by Lord Brougham and a group of men dedicated to the education of the aspiring working class and the Utilitarian ideal of 'Knowledge is Power.' The society produced an array of education materials, but the series of maps was one of their most successful ventures. A number of engravers and printers were used to produce the maps, which eventually exceed 200 sheets, and continued to be published after the Society as a whole ceased to function.

A finely rendered plan of the city that includes good detail of many streets and buildings with the Palais Rohan at center. The plan is augmented by two panoramic engravings along the bottom entitled "View of Bordeaux, from the Quai des Salinieres" and "View of Bordeaux, from the Quai des Cartrons." Both beautifully done and filled with large ships under full sail. Published by Baldwin & Cradock.

References:

Condition: B+

There is light toning and foxing mostly confined to the blank margins.

Estimate: $80 - $100

Sold for: $80

Closed on 2/9/2022

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