J. H. Colton (1800-1893). A Combined View of the Principal Mountains & Rivers in the World With Tables showing their relative Heights & Lengths. (New York: 1852). First separate-issue edition. Engraving with hand color. 20 3/8 x 29 ½ in. to neat line. Sheet: 21 ½ x 30 ½ in. Toning at lower center, and minor spotting. Fine condition overall. $4,000.
$4,000.00
Rare, Early Separate Issue Example
The map shows comparative lengths of the world’s rivers and the heights of mountains, arranged by region and continent. The detailed annotations provide insights into vegetation, volcanic activity, and the relative locations of cities along river courses.
Mountains and rivers are depicted side by side to allow easy comparison. The mountains are illustrated in a three-dimensional style, with peak heights labeled and volcanic activity indicated by smoke plumes. Rivers are shown in a linear fashion.
Created in the mid-19th century, this map reflects the era’s burgeoning interest in exploration and scientific inquiry. During this time, there was a significant drive to catalog and compare natural features across the globe, fueled by colonial expansion and advances in cartography and geography. Such maps were valuable educational and reference tools, offering insights into the natural world and its wonders.
Extensive annotations provide context, detailing the names, altitudes, and locations of the mountains, accompanied by a numbered key. The left and right panels include “Tables of Heights” and “Explanation,” offering further data on each feature.
This map is significant not only for its artistic quality but also for its role in disseminating geographical knowledge. It reflects a period of scientific enthusiasm and the desire to understand and categorize the natural world. The map’s innovative approach to data visualization made it a popular and influential piece, leading to many subsequent editions
Ref: Rumsey no. 11453.000; AI-generated summary.
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