Subject: Atlases
Period: 1879 (circa)
Publication:
Color: Hand Color
Size:
11.6 x 15.5 inches
29.5 x 39.4 cm
This handsome atlas contains 90 steel engraved maps in a beautiful combination of hand coloring and printed color with precise engraved lines characteristic of Stieler's fine work. The large double page maps are numbered 2 to 89, plus two unnumbered maps that were placed in the atlas at its publication to reflect current events. The title page is number 1 according to the contents page. Each map is a study in precision engraving, with exceptional detail. Of the maps, four are celestial (including a fabulous engraving of the moon), two are thematic, and the rest cover the continents, polar regions and countries of the world. Many of the maps include insets of principal cities and topographical features. The map of Antarctica gives in terrific detail the latest discoveries. The Atlantic Ocean map details the sub-sea telegraph cables. Map No. 52 is unnumbered but correctly collates. Between maps Nos. 56 & 57 is a large (17.5" x 22") folding map "Die Neuen Grenzen Auf der Balkan - Halbinsel…vom 13 July 1878" that provides incredible detail of the Balkans and Greece. Another large (21" x 15.5") folding map placed between maps Nos. 62 & 63 is composed of two maps on one sheet that describe Afghanistan and parts of Persia and Turkey. The atlas has six maps of United States interest. A beautifully engraved, two-sheet title page graces the front. Folio. Complete. Original hard covers in green cloth and quarter leather spine and tips with gilt titles on front and spine. Published by Justus Perthes. A very nice example of this atlas.
References:
Condition: B+
The maps are generally fine, but map No. 52 is unnumbered and lightly toned with splits along centerfold top and bottom. The two large folding maps have some toning along folds. Front cover is starting, leather on spine and tips replaced at some point, boards soiled and spine edges with some cracks.