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.

Two fine, attractive city plans, each depicting the historical fortifications, gardens, and important buildings. The magnificent Boboli Gardens are graphically shown on the plan of Florence, along with good detail of the Duomo, and the many plazas throughout the city. Architectural elevations of 16 the major structures are engraved along the bottom. The Citadel and the Da Piazza Castello dominate the plan of Turin and the entire city is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards. The finely engraved views of Turin, La Superga, and the Royal Palace complete the composition. Both are drawn by W.B. Clark and published by Baldwin and Cradock. Sizes vary slightly.

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Condition: A

Original color with minor soiling and some faint toning in the margins.