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.

This handsome and boldly engraved plan of the city centers on the Peter and Paul Fortress, located on the Zayachii Ostrov island in the Neva River. Good detail names all major streets and many public places and buildings. An intricate panoramic view at bottom right shows the city from across the Neva River with the Isakiefskoi Bridge in the foreground and names the Winter Palace, Admiralty, War Office, Statue of Peter I, and Isaac's Church. Drawn by W.B. Clarke, engraved by B.R. Davies and published by Charles Knight. Additional title in Cyrillic Russian.

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Condition: A

Contemporary outline color with a little marginal stain in the far top margin, not affecting the map.