Catalog Archive
Auction 202, Lot 756

"Tunison's Peerless Universal Atlas of the World", Tunison, H. C.

Subject: Atlases

Period: 1882 (circa)

Publication:

Color: Hand Color

Size:
11.9 x 14.4 inches
30.2 x 36.6 cm
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This attractive and unusual atlas is complete with over 80 wax-engraved, hand colored maps and diagrams, most with decorative borders and some with vignettes. Nearly half of the maps relate to the United States. Most of the maps are printed on both sides. The map of California, Oregon, and Nevada is particularly nice with insets of Yosemite and the Redwoods. Also featured are two pages of presidential portraits and numerous engravings showing the diverse civilizations and cultures of the world. The last map is Map of the Regions about the Unknown North Polar Sea Showing the Latest Exploring Expeditions. These maps are uncommon for their late hand coloring, a laborious process that was largely abandoned two decades earlier. Small folio, 208 pages. Hardbound in original, embossed brown cloth boards.

References:

Condition: B+

The maps are very good to mostly near fine on clean sheets with vibrant colors. Text has uniform light toning. Front free endpaper has been skillfully reattached with archival tape. Front hinge is starting. Covers are stained and worn with bumped edges. Spine is chipped at top and bottom.

Estimate: $400 - $475

Sold for: $375

Closed on 2/12/2025

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