Catalog Archive
Auction 199, Lot 129

Decorative Wall Map in Contemporary Color

"A New and Embellished Map of the United States. Compiled from the Latest & Most Authentic Documents"

Subject: Eastern United States

Period: 1845 (dated)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
47.4 x 36.3 inches
120.4 x 92.2 cm
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This rare and decorative wall map of the eastern United States was drawn by S. Bishop Munson and published by Doolittle, Munson & Sherer in Cincinnati. It extends from the Atlantic seaboard west to include the eastern half of Texas north to the Canadian border. The map was issued right around the time Texas achieved statehood and its state seal is shown along the decorative border (Congress voted to annex Texas in 1844, but it was not approved until the end of 1845). Above Texas is a huge Indian Territory extending to the Dakotas with eastern boundary along the Missouri River. To its east is an oversized Iowa Territory incorporating most of Minnesota along with Wisconsin Territory. Within Iowa Territory is a "Disputed Territory" along the Missouri border and a large tract of land ceded by the Sioux, Sac & Fox Indians to the United States. Within Indian Territory, a number of tribes are named with populations noted. Small inset maps show the southern tip of Florida (which had just gained statehood) and a large Oregon Territory (whose boundary issue would be resolved in 1846). A large vignette above the title depicts the Landing at Jamestown in 1607. The map is surrounded by an elaborate floral border incorporating the first eleven presidents of the United States, state and territory seals, and 6 city views of the trans-Appalachian west including Nashville, New Orleans, Cincinnati (where the publishers were based), Pittsburgh, Louisville, and St. Louis. Mounted on contemporary linen with original rollers present and attached.

References:

Condition: B

A nice example with full contemporary color. There is uniform toning from the varnish and light cracking throughout. A light dampstain is visible at top left, and the edge ribbon is detached in a few places along the left sheet edge. Contemporary linen. Original rollers are present and attached.

Estimate: $2,750 - $3,500

Sold for: $1,800

Closed on 9/11/2024

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