An attractive pair of the distinctive Morse & Gaston atlases. The first volume pertains to the western hemisphere, while the second focuses on the eastern hemisphere.

The western hemisphere volume is a very desirable edition that contains pre-Civil War American state and territory maps. A total of 55 plates and maps include 12 related to physical geography, double-page maps of the world and United States, North America, 3 of Canada, 31 of U.S. states and territories, and 6 of Mexico/Latin America. The United States map shows large territorial configurations in the west including a huge Nebraska Territory and the southern portion of New Mexico Territory is labeled Arizona, 4 years prior to the territory's creation. Other maps of interest include Washington & Oregon territories, Utah & New Mexico, and several interesting thematic world maps showing data like animal distribution, religions and climate. 239 pages, hardbound in red leather with gilt stamping. All edges gilt.

The eastern hemisphere volume contains 32 hand-colored maps consisting of Europe (24), Asia (4), Africa (2), and Australia/Pacific Ocean (2). Contains a folding map of Sardinia (9.1 x 9.7") and a fascinating 22 x 14" folding plate featuring native costumes from countries around the world. 239 pages, hardbound in red leather with gilt stamping. All edges gilt.

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Condition: B+

The maps have light toning and occasional scattered foxing. The map of Washington Territory has a small chip in the image at top right. The large illustration at the back of volume two has a number of archivally repaired fold separations and extraneous creases. The binding of volume one is somewhat loose and the covers of both volumes are moderately worn.