1814 Thomson Map of Tartary ( Mongolia, Tibet )
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Description: This fascinating hand colored 1815 map by Edinburgh cartographer John Thomson depicts southern Tartary, Tibet (Thibet), Mongolia, and generally the whole of Central Asia. Area covered extends from the Caspian Sea to Japan and Korea. Shows the ancient caravan routes of the Silk Road – many of which are still in use today. Magnificent size, beautiful color, and high detail make this one of the finest maps of these central Asian nations to appear in the early 19th century.
Date: 1814
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: Tartary-t-1814 (Necessary for phone inquiries: 646-320-8650)
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