1815 Thomson Map of Porto Rico, Virgin Islands, Haiti, Dominican Republic

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Title:    West India Islands. / Porto Rico and Virgin Isles. / Haiti, Hispaniola or St. Comingo.

Description:    This fascinating hand colored 1814 map by Edinburgh cartographer John Thomson depicts the modern West Indies or Caribbean nations of Porto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic. Divided into two sections, this is a spectacularly detailed map of this regions. Depicts towns and cities, river courses, missions, and topographic details. One of the finest maps of these islands to appear in the 19th century.

Date:    1815

References:    None found.

Cartographer:    John Thomson was one of the leading masters of the Edinburgh school of cartography which flourished from roughly 1800 to 1830. Thomson & his contemporaries (Pinkerton & Cary) redefined European cartography by abandoning typical 18th century decorative elements such as elaborate title cartouches and fantastic beasts in favor of detail and accuracy. Thomson's principle works include the "Thomson's New General Atlas" published from 1814 to 1827 and his "Atlas of Scotland". The "Atlas of Scotland", a work of groundbreaking detail and dedication would eventually bankrupt the Thomson firm in 1830. Today Thomson maps are becoming increasingly rare as they are highly admired for their monumental size, vivid hand coloration, and superb detail. Click here for a list of rare maps from John Thomson.

Size:   Printed area measures 25 x 20 inches (63.5 x 50.8 centimeters)

Condition:    Fine or Perfect condition. Wide clean margins. Original platemark visible. Blank on verso.

Code:   PortoRico-t-1815 (Necessary for phone inquiries: 646-320-8650)