1823 'Dollhouse' Miniature Map of the World, on Rollers

Doll House map and Aware of Merit.

This is an unbearably charming and likely unique 1823 miniature wall map of the world. It is likely intended as a dollhouse map and may have been given as a 'reward of merit' map given to a schoolchild for academic achievement or good behavior. The production of a small map for dollhouses also underscores an increased drive to educate and interest young women in geography.

A Closer Look

The map measures just 4 x 6.75 inches, including the bottom roller. It employs a dual hemisphere projection, including the discoveries of the late 18th century. The fact that no other country, except for Canada, is specifically noted underscores that this is a fundamentally American map, meant to convey American values. Here, the United States appears to include Texas and the Pacific Northwest, including, perhaps, British Columbia. There is a good chance that the map is based on the similarly titled 'A Map of the World from the best Authorities' that appeared in Matthew Carey's General Atlas or perhaps his earlier American Atlas.

In some respects, the map is reminiscent of contemporary 'schoolgirl' maps, but is unusual in that it is printed rather than in manuscript. It may have been used in a dollhouse or 'baby house' as they were known at the time. It is equally likely that this map was a 'reward of merit' given to a schoolchild as an accolade for studiousness, regular attendance, or some other achievement. The practice of issuing 'rewards of merit' was especially common in New England in the early-mid 19th century.

Publication History and Census

This miniature map includes a New York imprint and the date 1823, but no other publication information. We are not aware of any other examples in institutional collections or on the market, but a similar piece that is explicitly labeled as a 'reward of merit' is held by the University of Southern Maine's Osher Map Library.

Condition

Very good. On original rollers. Varnish leads to slight toning and surface crackage.

References

Osher Map Library Accession Number OML-1823-51 (similar but not identical).