1814 Thomson Map of Northern India and Nepal
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Description: This fascinating hand colored 1814 map by Edinburgh cartographer John Thomson depicts northern India and Nepal. Bounded on the east by Persia and the Indus valley, on the North by Tibet, on the south by Berar, and on the east by Assam and Bhutan. Much of the upper portion of this map includes a detailed inset of the Kingdom of Nepal or Nepaul. This area is depicted in impressive detail considering that, when this map was printed very few western travelers had ever been to Nepal. Includes roads, mountain passes and the residences of important Lamas. Extends fully into the Tibetan plateau as far as Te Shoo Loomboo and the Road to Lhasa (Lassa). The right hand corner of this map contains an inset of Kabul or Cabul.
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: IndiaNepal-t-1814 (to order by phone call: 646-320-8650)
