Catalog Archive
Auction 137, Lot 809

"Egypt", SDUK Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge

Subject: Egypt

Period: 1831 (published)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
11.8 x 14.8 inches
30 x 37.6 cm
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The beginning of the nineteenth century saw a period of rapid market growth and innovation in the map publishing world. Increased literacy and public interest in new frontiers and colonies overwhelmed the market because it was oriented toward the small, affluent market of the previous century. With the intent to fill this void, The Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge (SDUK) was founded in 1828 in London, by Lord Brougham and a group of men dedicated to the education of the aspiring working class and the Utilitarian ideal of 'Knowledge is Power.' The society produced an array of education materials, but the series of maps was one of their most successful ventures. A number of engravers and printers were used to produce the maps, which eventually exceed 200 sheets, and continued to be published after the Society as a whole ceased to function.

Handsome map detailing the region from the mouth of the Nile to Korosko in the southern portion of Egypt. There is also an inset at lower left that shows a continuation of the Nile River. The map locates scores of villages and settlements along the Nile and includes a translation of Arab terms used on the map.

References:

Condition: A

Near fine condition with original outline color.

Estimate: $50 - $70

Sold for: $35

Closed on 9/14/2011

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