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Code: 53698
Date 1819
Copper engraving with original hand colouring. Engraved by N. R. Hewitt from maps drawn by James Wyld. Overall size: 48.7cms x 35cms. Image size: 443mm x 292mm including imprint. Centrefold as published. Various notes such as in the Arctic Circle: Sea seen by Hearne 1771 and Sea seen by Mackenzie 1789 and Owyhee in the Pacific + where Captain Cook was killed Feb 14th. 1779. L arge bold (and fictitious) Mts. of the Moon seen across the center of Africa Slight offsetting in blank areas - not obtrusive but please examine the photographs carefully. One small archival strengthening bottom of centrefold on verso else good condition.
John Thomson was one of the leading exponents of the Edinburgh school of cartography which reached its zenith between 1800 and 1830. Thomson & his contemporaries such as Pinkerton and Cary redefined European cartography by abandoning such 18th century decorative elements as elaborate title cartouches and fantastic beasts in favour of detail and accuracy. Thomson’s principle works include the Thomson’s New General Atlas published from 1814 though 1827 (from which this map originates) and his Atlas of Scotland. The Atlas of Scotland, a work of groundbreaking detail and dedication would eventually bankrupt the Thomson firm in 1830. His maps are prized today for the quality of their detail, their size and the attractiveness of the original colouring.