One doesn’t need to be a cartographer to appreciate the beauty of maps. This month we bring to you a unique book – a geographical atlas with stunning illustrations of various geographical features with a focus on mountain and rivers. These maps were produced during the 1800s primarily to aid the imperial adventures abroad. Read on…
This is the first book to catalog comparative maps and tableaux that visualize the heights and lengths of the world’s mountains and rivers. Produced predominantly in the nineteenth century, these beautifully rendered maps emerged out of the tide of exploration and scientific developments in measuring techniques. Beginning with the work of explorer Alexander von Humboldt, these historic drawings reveal a world of artistic and imaginative difference. Many of them give way—and with visible joy—to the power of fantasy in a mesmerizing array of realistic and imaginary forms. Most of the maps are from the David Rumsey Historical Map Collection at Stanford University.
From the book description
Readers who are keen observers of geography are sure to enjoy this wonderful collection. This book is not widely available, so you may like to call ahead and check with your local book store.