Catalog Archive
Auction 186, Lot 152

"North America Sheet IV Lake Superior", SDUK Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge

Subject: Lake Superior

Period: 1832 (dated)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
15.4 x 12 inches
39.1 x 30.5 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.

This finely engraved map features great detail of the region surrounding Lake Superior. It includes important navigational notes, interesting notations in the interior, depth readings, Native American tribes, place names, etc. The map locates the American Fur Company at the west end near Fond du Lac. Published by Baldwin & Cradock. Engraved by J. & C. Walker. Surrounded by a keyboard-style border.

References:

Condition: A

On a bright sheet with a few faint spots.

Estimate: $110 - $140

Sold for: $55

Closed on 2/9/2022

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