Western & Eastern Hemisphere Maps with World Double Hemisphere Engravings, 1857, Set of 2

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These beautiful antique prints show two complementary hemispheric maps titled “Westliche Halbkugel” (Western Hemisphere) and “Oestliche Halbkugel” (Eastern Hemisphere). The … Read more These beautiful antique prints show two complementary hemispheric maps titled “Westliche Halbkugel” (Western Hemisphere) and “Oestliche Halbkugel” (Eastern Hemisphere). The Western Hemisphere map presents North and South America in fine detail, including the United States, Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean islands, and South America down to Tierra del Fuego. It also includes Polynesia across the Pacific, with labelled island groups reflecting mid-19th-century geographical knowledge. The Eastern Hemisphere map depicts Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia with clarity, showing political boundaries as they were recognised in 1857. Notable features include detailed coastlines, major rivers and mountain ranges, the delineation of colonial territories in Africa, and the extent of Russia across Siberia. Australia is labelled with its colonial divisions, and Southeast Asia is clearly defined, reflecting European perspectives of the time. Both maps were engraved and published in 1857 in Gotha by Justus Perthes as part of Adolf Stieler’s famous Hand-Atlas. Stieler’s atlases were renowned for their accuracy, clarity, and elegance, used widely by scholars and travellers throughout the 19th century.

Technique: Copperplate engraving with original outline hand colouring used to differentiate national boundaries and enhance readability. The engraving is finely executed with German titles and notations, and each hemisphere is presented in a clean circular projection. These maps are significant as they represent mid-19th-century cartography at its finest, capturing geopolitical realities before major events such as German unification or the Scramble for Africa reshaped borders. Condition summary: Both maps are in excellent condition with minimal age toning, no tears or repairs, and strong, crisp impressions. Colours remain fresh and paper is firm throughout. See less