A substantial mid-19th century atlas published by Gall & Inglis of Edinburgh, containing a wide range of hand-coloured and monochrome engraved maps covering the ancient and modern world. Produced during a period when geographical knowledge and cartographic accuracy were advancing rapidly, the atlas includes maps of classical antiquity alongside contemporary political and geographical maps of Europe, Asia, Africa, the Americas and the British Isles.
The decorative title page is particularly attractive, reflecting the Victorian taste for ornate typography and presentation. The atlas retains numerous folding maps, including examples illustrating the Roman Wall in Britain, the Ancient World and various regions of the globe. The maps remain bright and highly decorative, making the volume equally appealing to collectors of antiquarian books, cartography and decorative interiors.
Published in Edinburgh in 1847, this atlas provides a fascinating snapshot of how the world was understood and depicted in the mid-Victorian period.
Details
- Era: Mid Victorian, 1847
- Origin: Edinburgh, Scotland
- Publisher: Gall & Inglis
- Materials: Leather, cloth boards, paper, engraved and hand-coloured maps
- Dimensions: Approx. H: 54.5cm x W: 35.5cm x D: 3.5cm
- Condition Notes: Generally good antique condition. Wear and rubbing to binding consistent with age and use. Minor losses to cloth and leather at corners. Internally clean and well-presented with expected age-related toning and occasional foxing. Folding maps appear substantially complete and remain vibrant.
- Provenance/Story: Published during the height of Victorian interest in exploration, empire and classical scholarship. Gall & Inglis became one of Scotland's best-known publishers of educational and reference works.
- Care Tips: Store flat or upright with support in a stable environment away from direct sunlight and excessive humidity. Handle folding maps carefully when opening.
Notable Features
- Decorative engraved title page
- Numerous folding maps
- Hand-coloured cartography
- Maps of both the ancient and modern world
- Published in Edinburgh in 1847
- Large-format Victorian atlas