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An Illustrated Map of Kabul, Punjab, and Baluchistan by Tallis, 1851

About the Item

This map, attributed to John Tallis and featuring the work of Robert Montgomery Martin, is part of a series created for the publication "The British Colonies." John Tallis & Company was known for its detailed and decorative maps in the mid-19th century, often including elaborate margins and vignettes that offer insight into the culture, landscape, and history of the region depicted. The map shows the regions of Cabul (an older spelling of Kabul, Afghanistan), the Punjab (a region of northern India and eastern Pakistan), and Beloochistan (an alternative spelling of Balochistan, a region in southwestern Pakistan). The illustrated margins are typical of Tallis maps, adorned with decorative elements and scenes that are likely representations of local landmarks, people, and ways of life. The vignettes are particularly interesting as they serve a dual purpose: they are ornamental and informative. They provide a visual narrative about the regions, complementing the geographical information with human interest. The scenes may depict local figures, architecture, landscapes, and activities that were thought to be characteristic of the area at the time. John Tallis maps are appreciated for their artistic value as well as their historical significance. They reflect the Victorian era's interest in the wider world, fueled by British imperialism and the public's curiosity about the empire's territories. These maps are more than just navigational aids; they are artifacts of their time, reflecting the imperial mindset and the Victorian fascination with "exotic" lands. They were created during a period when the British Empire was at its height, and they were designed both to inform and to reinforce the imperial narrative of discovery and dominance. More details of the images: 1. The first image features a section of the map showcasing the title "CABOOL, THE PUNJAB AND BELOOCHISTAN" with ornate borders. The top-right corner has a vignette depicting boats on the Indus River, emphasizing the importance of riverine transportation in the region. The decorative border incorporates floral and abstract motifs typical of the Victorian era. 2. The second image displays another section of the map with the river highlighted and the border featuring a detailed illustration of a cityscape labeled "LAHORE." The foreground includes figures on horseback and camels, representing local modes of travel, while the city's architecture is visible in the background, capturing the essence of Lahore during the period. 3. The third image shows yet another segment of the map with a focus on a different area, surrounded by a similar ornate border. In the left margin, there is a detailed vignette labeled "SULTAN MAHMOUD'S MINARS AND FORTRESS, GHAZNEE." It portrays two towering minarets and a fortress, along with figures in the foreground that appear to be locals, possibly discussing or in some form of exchange. These vignettes are not just decorative; they serve as windows into the history and cultural landscapes of the regions depicted. They suggest the architectural wonders, social scenes, and transportation methods prevalent in the 19th century in these areas. The map's level of detail and the inclusion of local landmarks and geographical features reflect both the cartographic skills and the cultural perceptions of the British at the time.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 10.71 in (27.2 cm)Width: 14.26 in (36.2 cm)Depth: 0 in (0.02 mm)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1851
  • Condition:
    Good given age. Original fold in middle as published. General age-related toning, please study scan carefully.
  • Seller Location:
    Langweer, NL
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: BG-13736-151stDibs: LU3054339298472
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