unbound
1814 · Edinburgh
by THOMSON, John
Edinburgh: John Thomson, 1814. unbound. Map. Engraving with original hand coloring. Image measures 19.5" x 23". This wonderful 1814 map by John Thomson covers Tartary or Central Asia and extends from the Caspian Sea east to Japan and Kamchatka. Centered on Chinese Tartary, includes the regions of India, China, Tibet, Manchuria, Korea, Japan, Independent Tartary and Mongolia. The map notes important towns and cities, including the supposed location of Kara Kum, the capital of the Mongol Empire of Genghis Khan, in the Gobi Desert. A portion of the ancient silk route is also noted.The map was included in the 1814 edition of Thomson's "New General Atlas". In good condition with minor wear along the original centerfold. Minor offsetting and foxing at places. Original plate mark visible. John Thomson (1777 - 1837) was a Scottish bookseller and publisher active in the early 19th century, who was one of the leaders in Europe who favored detailed and accurate mapping over the decorative and elaborate cartouches that appeared in earlier maps. His most important work was "Thomson's New General Atlas" and his "Atlas of Scotland". Although he went into bankruptcy twice during his career, his maps are today highly desirable for their scale and detail. This is beautiful example of his work. (Inventory #: 291530)