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.

A. Ireland, by SDUK Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge, dated 1842 (12.3 x 15.4"). This attractive map of Ireland is delineated by county with very good political and topographical detail. It identifies towns and cities, forts, bridges, lakes, mountains, roads, railways, and more. Population figures from the census of 1831 appear beneath the title. Condition: Original outline color with a couple small stains and light toning mostly confined to the sheet's edges.

B. Ireland in Provinces and Counties [on sheet with] County Map of Scotland, by Samuel Augustus Mitchell, dated 1881 (13.6 x 10.8"). This sheet includes two maps showing Ireland and Scotland divided into their counties. The Scotland map features an inset of the Shetland Islands at top left. Surrounded by a decorative border. On verso is a map entitled Map of France, Spain, and Portugal. Condition: Minor scattered foxing and toning.

References:

Condition: B+

See description above.