Map of Hindoostan British India by C. Smit, 1808

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Description

This map, titled "Hindoostan," was published by C. Smith, a prominent London map seller, on January 6, 1808, from No. … Read more This map, titled "Hindoostan," was published by C. Smith, a prominent London map seller, on January 6, 1808, from No. 172 Strand. It provides a detailed view of the Indian subcontinent during the early 19th century, reflecting British colonial interest and expanding influence in the region. The map features the vast territories of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka (Ceylon), including the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea, along with the Indian Ocean's coastal areas. Notable regions and provinces are highlighted in distinct colors, illustrating the various political boundaries of the time. The Himalayan range, the Indus, and the Ganges rivers are particularly well-represented, showcasing the critical geographical features of the subcontinent. Important cities marked on the map include Calcutta, Madras, Bombay, and Delhi, reflecting key colonial centers of administration. The map also depicts parts of Persia (Iran) and Tibet in the northwest, showing the geopolitical reach of British cartography at the time. The engraving is finely detailed, and hand-coloring remains vivid, despite some toning around the edges typical of antique maps of this period. The presence of an engraved grid helps with navigation and orientation, a valuable feature for maps of this era. Collectors of early 19th-century cartography will appreciate the high quality of this map, as it represents an important period in British imperial history and the advancement of geographical knowledge.

Condition: The map appears to be in good condition, with visible aging signs such as mild toning and light wear to the margins. The engraved details remain sharp, and the hand-coloring is still clear, though slightly muted with age. The paper is intact, and no significant tears or repairs are visible. Any minor imperfections, such as slight foxing or creases, do not detract from the overall quality of the map. This map is ideal for collectors interested in British colonial history or cartographic representation of India during the early 1800s. See less