1850s Collectibles and Curiosities

Rare Victorian (c. 1850) lacquered papier-mâché jewelry box with inlaid mother of pearl and gilding depicting a floral motif. The mother of pearl looks of high quality and shimmers w...

Great image of Lord Nelson Fine steel engraving by H.Robinson After J.Hoppner Published circa 1850 Unframed.

1850 two volume set of Byron's Works, printed by A. Fullerton, Edinburgh. Scarlet Morocco leather & gilt bound set filled with superb steel engravings of Italy, etc. Lord Byron's hom...

Large 1856 Mexico & Guatemala Framed map. Published by Charles Desilver, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. As found high end custom framing with black giltwood frame, custom matting and UV...

Rare turned brass nautical travel compass complete with cover, rose on eight-wind paper complete with goniometric circle from copperplate engraving. English manufacture from the mid-...

This map is a part of John Tallis's series of maps, known for their detailed and ornamental style. John Tallis & Company, mentioned in the caption, was an English cartographic publisher active during the 19th century. The company was renowned for its detailed maps of countries and regions around the world, often including intricate border decorations, vignettes, and historically informative illustrations. The map itself is a mid-19th-century depiction of the West Indies, which is a region of the North Atlantic Ocean in the Caribbean that consists of the island countries and surrounding waters of three major archipelagos: the Greater Antilles, the Lesser Antilles, and the Lucayan Archipelago. The detail on the map is quite accurate for its time, showing not only the geography but also marking important cities and ports, which would have been vital information during the era of British colonialism. Robert Montgomery Martin, whose work is cited here, was a British author and colonial administrator, and his writings included comprehensive descriptions of the British colonies during the peak of the British Empire. His work was often used as the textual accompaniment to the maps produced by John Tallis. The Tallis maps are characterized by their vignettes that illustrate local scenes, notable features, or important figures, which can be seen in the margins of the map. These vignettes are valuable for giving cultural and social context to the geographical information presented. It's not just a map but a piece of historical documentation that reflects the interests and perspectives of the British during the time it was made. The presence of these artistic elements makes Tallis maps not just navigational tools but also historical artifacts and works of art. The map includes islands such as Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola (containing Haiti and the Dominican Republic), Puerto Rico, and various smaller islands of the Lesser Antilles, amongst others. The economic, geopolitical, and social conditions of these countries during the era when this map was made were heavily influenced by colonial powers, primarily by the empires of Europe, including the British Empire. The screenshots from the map show various detailed sections of the West India Islands and surrounding areas, which include artistic elements and cartographic details typical of John Tallis maps...

This Tallis map of British Guiana (now known as Guyana) is a richly decorated document, much like other maps from the esteemed cartographic publisher John Tallis & Company. The firm,...

John Tallis & Company were renowned for their ornate and detailed maps in the mid-19th century. Their works often featured elaborate borders, decorative motifs, and insets of vignett...

This original antique map of Jamaica is part of the renowned series created by the Tallis Company, known for their detailed and decorative maps ...

John Tallis & Company is known for producing maps and atlases that were highly regarded for their accurate cartographic detail and their distinctive style. They often included ornate...

The map of Independent Tartary is part of the collection by John Tallis & Company, which were unique for their elaborate decorative elements and detailed illustrations. **The Maker ...

John Tallis & Company was a London-based map publisher that flourished during the 19th century. Their maps, characterized by elaborate borders and decorative vignettes, are some of t...

John Tallis & Company was renowned for their detailed and ornate maps during the 19th century. Their maps are distinguished by the intricate borders and vignettes that are as informa...

The map presented here is an intricate example from the series of maps produced by John Tallis & Company. Tallis maps are known for their detailed and elaborate style, often includin...

John Tallis & Company, often simply known as Tallis, was renowned for the production of maps and illustrated geographical publications in the mid-19th century. Tallis maps, such as t...

The Tallis map of the Isthmus of Panama is a beautifully detailed work, characteristic of the maps produced by John Tallis & Company, which was one of the last cartographic firms to ...

The map is part of the series created by John Tallis & Company, known for their mid-19th-century maps. This particular map illustrates the regions of Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and...

This map of Central America, part of John Tallis & Company's series from "The British Colonies" by Robert Montgomery Martin, is a fine example of mid-19th century cartography and wou...

John Tallis & Company was a British map-making firm that gained widespread acclaim in the 19th century, particularly known for their detailed and artistically embellished maps. The f...

The Tallis maps, including the one of India, are known for their detailed and ornamental style. They were produced during the mid-19th century, a time when cartographic publishing be...

John Tallis & Company, known for their decorative mid-19th-century maps, created this map of Asia. These maps were distinctive for their elaborate borders and detailed vignettes. The...

A beautiful fine set of the collected first editions works of Cuthbert Bede, pen name of Edward Bradley, a set of his scarce novels uniformly bound by Bickers. A very smart first ed...

"Nelson's Guide to the City of New York and its Neighbourhood," published in 1858 by T. Nelson in London and New York, serves as an invaluable resource for exploring the historical a...

Presented is U.S. Coast Survey nautical chart or maritime map of Chesapeake Bay and Delaware Bay from 1856. The map depicts the region from Susquehanna, Maryland to the northern Outer Banks in North Carolina. It also shows from Richmond and Petersburg, Virginia to the Atlantic Ocean. The map is highly detailed with many cities and towns labeled throughout. Rivers, inlets, and bays are also labeled. Various charts illustrating more specific parts of the region are marked on the map using dotted lines. The lines form boxes, and the corresponding chart number and publication date are given. Extensive triangulation surveys were conducted the length of Chesapeake Bay and are illustrated here. Hampton Roads, Virginia is labeled, along with the James, York, and Rappahannock Rivers, which were all extensively surveyed. The chart was published under the supervision of A. D. Bache, one of the most influential and prolific figures in the early history of the U.S. Coast Survey, for the 1856 Report of the Superintendent of the U.S. Coast Survey. Alexander Dallas Bache (1806-1867) was an American physicist, scientist, and surveyor. Bache served as the Superintendent of the U.S. Coast Survey from 1843 to 1865. Born in Philadelphia, Bache toured Europe and composed an important treatise on European Education. He also served as president of Philadelphia's Central High School and was a professor of natural history and chemistry at the University of Pennsylvania. Upon the death of Ferdinand Rudolph Hassler, Bache was appointed Superintendent of the United States Coast Survey. The Office of the Coast Survey, founded in 1807 by President Thomas Jefferson and Secretary of Commerce Albert Gallatin...

Presented is an original Civil War-era side drum with a pair of wooden drumsticks. This is a rope tension drum with a wooden body, ropes, and leather tabs. An iron tack pattern surro...

Early 19th Century Medical Science Surgical Human Skull Specimen An example of a 19th Century medical science surgical human skull specimen. This specimen is of the top section onl...

19th Century German Erzgebirge Noah’s Ark A 19th Century German Erzgebirge Noah’s ark toy set, with aged ark that shows remnants of typical straw work d...

The image is an original historical map of Australia from the year 1851, created by John Rapkin with illustrations by J. Marchant and engravings by J. B. Allen. The map was published...

Title: "Detailed Map of Austral Land - 1854" This historic map, titled "Australland," was published in Glogau in 1854 by cartographer Carl Flemming. It's an intricately detailed dep...

Title: "Mid-19th Century Map of Australasia by Carl Flemming - 1855" Description: This original 1855 antique map from the Sohr-Berghaus Atlas, created by Carl Flemming, is a detaile...

This original hand-colored map is from the "Atlas National Illustré," a work by Victor Levasseur, a French geographer and cartographer known for his richly illustrated maps. The map...

(2) vols., by Benson J. Lossing. ...Illustrations, by Pen and Pencil, of the History, Biography, Scenery, Relics, and Traditions of the War for Independence. Two volumes, the first i...

This original hand-colored map is from the "Atlas National Illustré," a work by Victor Levasseur, a French geographer and cartographer known for his richly illustrated maps. The map...

19th Century Italian Sedan Chair This is a mid 19th Century piece, it is the Rococo style, in Green and Gold and upholstered inside in a heavy gold brocade, complete with cushion ...

This original hand-colored map is from the "Atlas National Illustré," a work by Victor Levasseur, a French geographer and cartographer known for his richly illustrated maps. The map...

An original hand-colored map of the Département d'Indre-et-Loire created by Victor Levasseur in 1856. As an antique steel engraved map, it showcases the detailed craftsmanship and technology of mid-19th century map making. The method of steel engraving allowed for precise and intricate details to be captured, making this map not only a navigational tool but also a work of art. The addition of outline hand colouring is particularly noteworthy. This technique, where colours are applied by hand to the engraved map, was a common practice at the time to highlight certain features such as boundaries, rivers, and cities. The hand colouring on this map would have been done meticulously, adding vibrancy and clarity to the engraved lines and making it easier to differentiate various geographical and political demarcations. The map's wide margins are characteristic of the period's presentation style, offering space for additional annotations or simply serving to frame the map aesthetically when displayed. Such margins also suggest that the map was intended for a discerning audience, possibly for educational or decorative purposes in a library or study. Victor Levasseur was renowned for his decorative maps, often embellished with artistic elements that went beyond mere geographical information. These elements could include vignettes, allegorical figures, and detailed illustrations surrounding the map itself, reflecting the cultural, historical, and economic aspects of the depicted area. While the description does not detail these decorative aspects, it's common for Levasseur's works to feature such embellishments, making his maps highly prized among collectors and historians for both their artistic value and cartographic accuracy. This map of Département d'Indre-et-Loire, with its combination of technical precision in steel engraving and the beauty of hand colouring, represents a fascinating intersection of art and science in the 19th century. It is a testament to the era's dedication to detail, craftsmanship, and the aesthetic presentation of information. The Département d'Indre-et-Loire, located in the central part of France within the region known as the Centre-Val de Loire, is rich in historical and cultural significance, with numerous important places highlighted on a map from 1856 by Victor Levasseur. Based on the region's known historical sites and cities, the following places are likely to be featured or of importance: 1. **Tours**: As the capital city of the Département d'Indre-et-Loire, Tours is a central hub of history, culture, and architecture. It is known for its old town, the Place Plumereau, Tours Cathedral, and its proximity to the Loire River, making it a likely focal point on the map. 2. **Amboise**: This town is famous for the Château d'Amboise, which is closely linked to French royal history and offers panoramic views of the Loire River. Leonardo da Vinci is buried here in the Chapel of Saint-Hubert, associated with the château. 3. **Chinon**: Known for its medieval fortress, the Château de Chinon, this town has deep historical roots, including connections to Joan of Arc and King Charles VII. The fortress and town would be significant landmarks. 4. **Villandry**: The Château de Villandry is renowned for its beautiful Renaissance gardens, which are some of the most impressive in France. While the château might be less emphasized in an 1856 map compared to cities and towns, it's an important site in the region. 5. **Loches**: This town features the Château de Loches, a medieval castle, and the Royal Lodge, noted for its Renaissance architecture. The town's history and architectural landmarks make it a place of interest. 6. **Azay-le-Rideau**: The Château d'Azay-le-Rideau is set on an island in the middle of the Indre River, showcasing the French Renaissance architectural...

This original hand-colored map is from the "Atlas National Illustré," a work by Victor Levasseur, a French geographer and cartographer known for his richly illustrated maps. The map...

This original hand-colored map is from the "Atlas National Illustré," a work by Victor Levasseur, a French geographer and cartographer known for his richly illustrated maps. The map is a steel engraving, which was a common and precise method for creating maps at the time. The inclusion of the publisher's name, A. Combette from Paris, and the addresses of the various contributors to the map's creation, like the engravers Laguillermie and Rainaud, adds to the historical context of the piece. The margins of the map are adorned with detailed illustrations that serve as a visual encyclopedic reference to the region's geography, economy, and notable figures. The use of color along the boundaries makes the map not only a tool for navigation but also an educational resource, providing insights into the department's landscape, economy, and cultural significance. The text included in the map's design provides statistical information, a map legend, and discussions about the land, local curiosities, notable personalities, products, and commerce, which would have been invaluable for education and reference at the time. The 'Atlas National Illustré' is celebrated for its combination of cartographic detail and artistic embellishment, making it a valuable cultural artifact. It represents the height of decorative map-making in the 19th century, alongside the works of John Tallis and Archibald Fullarton. This uploaded image is a detailed and colored map of the Département de la Gironde from Victor Levasseur's "Atlas National Illustré." Similar to the other maps from this series, it features a central map with the title 'Dépt. de la Gironde' at the bottom. Surrounding the map are decorative vignettes and elements that bring to life the cultural and economic aspects of the Gironde department. On the left, there is likely statistical information about the department and its subdivisions, reflecting the population and administrative details. This is framed by images that may represent the local industries and natural resources, such as wine, which is a central feature of the Bordeaux region located within Gironde. The right side of the map contains a textual history and descriptions of the region, coupled with portraits of notable figures, possibly historic personages or contributors to the region's cultural and economic development. The illustrations often include agricultural products, symbols of commerce, and scenes of daily life, as well as architectural landmarks. The presence of wine bottles, barrels, and vineyards in the illustrations would be indicative of the Gironde's prominence in wine production, particularly Bordeaux wines, which are esteemed worldwide. These engravings serve to emphasize the richness of the land and the sophistication of its products. Maps from this era, especially those by Levasseur, are notable for their combination of art and education, providing a snapshot not only of the geography but also of the societal and economic conditions of the time. The detailed engravings also suggest that this map was as much a decorative piece as it was a functional one, intended for display and reference by those interested in the illustrated region. The Gironde department in France is renowned for its significant contribution to the wine industry, particularly through the Bordeaux wine region. A bit more about the important places within Gironde and the types of wine the area is known for: 1. **Bordeaux**: The capital city of the department and the heart of the wine region. It's not only an urban center but also a hub for the wine trade. 2. **Médoc**: North of Bordeaux, known for prestigious châteaux and wines like Margaux, Saint-Julien, Pauillac, and Saint-Estèphe. 3. **Saint-Émilion**: East of Bordeaux, recognized for its full-bodied red wines and the picturesque medieval town. 4. **Pomerol**: Also near Saint-Émilion, smaller than its neighbor but equally renowned, particularly for Château Pétrus...

The Miscellaneous Works of Oliver Goldsmith (1728-1774) in 4 gilt tooled leatherbound volumes. Published: New York G.P. Putnam & Company, 10 Park Place, 1854. A nice set of selected...

Michael A. Finnel Mid 19th Century Renaissance Revival style Walnut Cased Thermometer with leaf decorated crest, printed marks. Thermometer not workin...

Scrimshaw of a vertically engraved whale tooth datable to around the mid-19th century depicting an old sailor with a beard and long hair holding leaning over one shoulder a cormoran...

Great battle plan of The Battle of Abukir Drawn by A.M Perrot Steel engraving by Tardieu with original hand colour Unframed. The size given is the paper size

A very handsome Victorian military explorer's compass dating to around 1840 / 1860 set in a hinged mahogany block measuring 2" square. The compass has a shapely blued-steel needle (...

Multifunctional vesta lighter box designed by Peter Hertz (1811-1885). Beautiful antique vesta case, created in Copenhagen Denmark at the silversmiths workshop of Peter Hertz in 185...

An exciting retelling of Jack the Giant Killer, beautifully illustrated throughout by Richard Doyle, a smart copy. A vivid retelling of 'The Story of Ja...

A charming 19th century French Provincial prie-dieu/chair of carved cherry wood and handwoven rush seating, having lovely, scalloped details. The top chair seat pulls up in order to ...

19th Century collection of Italian museum religious figures A rare collection of mid-19th Century hand crafted gesso over pine museum quality religious Italian figures. In the form ...

Standing figure of a gentleman wearing a hat, holding a pipe and holding a cane by his side.Hinged and opening to a humidor. Rectangular base. From an Amherst Mass estate.

Scrimshaw of an engraved whale tooth, of fine workmanship datable to around the mid-19th century, length 10.8 cm, depicting small rowing boat with sail and 6 men on board, one of ...

Scrimshaw of an engraved whale tooth, fine workmanship datable to around mid-19th century, length 11.7 cm, depicting whaler with men aboard, boat rowing with 6 whalers one of them i...

Scrimshaw di un dente di balena inciso verticalmente, di pregevole fattura e databile attorno alla metà del XIX sec., lunghezza cm 13, raffigurante: Lady of the pocks, figura femm...

With a painted eagle and inscription.

Scrimshaw of an engraved whale tooth, datable to around the mid-19th century, of fine workmanship length cm 12.5, depicting on one side whaling ship with islands and birds in the ba...

18th Century Naples, Italy nativity figure An exceptional example of a late 18th Century Italian nativity figure. Hand carved articulated pine joint l...

Rare scrimshaw of a large whale tooth depicted vertically in bas-relief the profile of a bearded whaler with hat on his head, height 16 cm. Datable to around the mid-19th century. O...

A famous illustrator and caricaturist best known for his illustrations for Punch magazine. He died at age 47 in 1864. Titled " Master George and The Dragon Flies". "A Caution to Youn...

19th Century Medical Science Research Artifact A fine example of 19th Century medical science research artifact, in two sections and not hinged. A d...

Antique Tennis Stevengraph. A rare late 19th century woven silk Stevengraph of a Tennis Match entitled "The First Set". This example forms part of a series by Thomas Stevens of Coventry depicting sporting and other subjects. The First Set (A Lawn Tennis Scene) is in original condition with original frame and mount. The scene is of a Victorian lawn...