Catalog Archive
Auction 128, Lot 329

"Kentucky", Carey, Mathew

Subject: Kentucky

Period: 1814 (published)

Publication: General Atlas, Improved and Enlarged

Color: Hand Color

Size:
18 x 10 inches
45.7 x 25.4 cm
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Mathew Carey was a seminal figure in early American publishing; establishing the first publishing firm to specialize in cartography and issuing the first atlas devoted exclusively to American maps. He set up an elaborate cottage system of craftsmen for compiling, engraving, printing, and coloring maps. This practice was emulated by later American cartographic publishers such as John Melish and Henry S. Tanner. The American Atlas concept was also adopted by other publishers in both the United States and Europe.

Colorfully outlined by county, this map details towns and villages, watershed, topography, and wagon roads. Places and rivers are named throughout the state. The early road system is well illustrated. Longitude is shown west from Philadelphia. Engraved by Gridley. Carey's General Atlas of 1814 was the first American atlas to offer hand coloring on the maps.

References:

Condition: A

Original color and wide original margins with a short fold separation well away from the map.

Estimate: $550 - $700

Sold for: $400

Closed on 5/20/2009

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