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1817 Map of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands with Original Hand Coloring

About the Item

The title provided for this map is "Porto Rico and Virgin Isles," and it is an antique map from an early 19th century atlas, dated 1817, featuring original hand coloring. This historic map showcases the geographical layout of Puerto Rico and the nearby Virgin Islands, including St. Thomas and St. Croix. The hand coloring is used to highlight different elevations and terrains, such as mountain ranges, valleys, and coastal areas. The age of the map, over 200 years old, is reflected in the paper's tone and the style of cartography. Despite its age, the map's lines and text are remarkably clear, indicating that it has been well-preserved. The fine detail in the engraving and the careful application of color demonstrate the high level of craftsmanship that went into making maps during this period. Maps like this one would have been important for navigation and trade in the Caribbean during the 19th century, as well as being valuable items for those interested in the region’s geography. The overall condition of the map appears to be good, with paper coloration consistent with its age. There might be some slight foxing or age-related toning, but it does not detract from the legibility or aesthetic quality of the map. The neat lines and margins are well-preserved, and the text is clear, suggesting the map has been well cared for over the years. However, the bottome has been enforced neatly and there is one tear not touching the image. The engraving is precise, and the hand coloring is applied with skill, which enhances the visual appeal of the map. This piece would have served as both a practical guide for navigation and a work of art for those interested in the geography of the West India Islands during the time it was created. More info about the maker: John Thomson was a notable Scottish cartographer from the late 18th and early 19th centuries. He was active in Edinburgh, which was a center for Enlightenment science, literature, and education, and it became an important hub for cartographic publishing during that time. Thomson's work is best known for its accuracy, detail, and the aesthetic appeal of his maps. He published "Thomson's New General Atlas" around 1817, which was considered one of the most detailed world atlases of the time. This work was significant for its use of dramatic color and for including updates based on new discoveries and contemporary geopolitical changes. Thomson's maps were also distinctive for their lack of decorative embellishments, which were common in maps of the earlier periods. Instead, he focused on the clarity and functionality of the cartographic information, which made his maps particularly useful for navigators and scholars. The quality of the paper and printing techniques used by Thomson were also superior for the time, contributing to the longevity and crisp appearance of his maps. The New General Atlas by John Thomson included detailed maps of countries from around the world, reflecting the state of geographic knowledge during the Regency period. His works remain valuable to collectors and historians for their representation of historical geography and as artifacts of the cartographic arts of the early 19th century.

Dimensions:

Height: 25.99 in (66 cm)Width: 11.03 in (28 cm)Depth: 0 in (0.02 mm)

Materials and Techniques:

Paper,Engraved

Period:

Early 19th Century

Date of Manufacture:

1817

Condition:

Additions or alterations made to the original: The lower margin has been enforced as the this map was the upper part of a page with Haiti, but split in two. Good condition considering its age. Flattened folding lines and one tear at the bottom not reaching the image. Original Bordercoloring. Minor foxing. Study image carefully. Ideal for framing or matting.

Seller Location:

Langweer, NL

Reference Number:

Seller: BG-31619-131stDibs: LU3054337731242

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