Antique Folding Map of Cape Colony to Zambesi River in South Africa, 1890s

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This impressive antique folding map, “Juta’s Map of South Africa from the Cape to the Zambesi,” was published in Cape … Read more This impressive antique folding map, “Juta’s Map of South Africa from the Cape to the Zambesi,” was published in Cape Town by J.C. Juta & Co. towards the late 19th century (c.1890). It presents South Africa on a grand scale, covering the Cape Colony northward to the Zambesi River, and includes the surrounding regions of Bechuanaland, Matabeleland, Mashonaland, Natal, Zululand, and parts of modern-day Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. The map is hand-colored in outline, with political boundaries clearly marked to show colonies, territories, and tribal lands. Major divisions include the Cape Colony, Orange Free State, Transvaal, Natal, Zululand, Bechuanaland Protectorate, and Matabeleland. Numerous towns, villages, rivers, and mountain ranges are finely engraved, while railroads, wagon routes, and telegraph lines are carefully indicated.

This map was designed not only for reference but also for practical use by officials, settlers, and travelers. The detail is remarkable: railways under construction are shown, frontier posts are marked, and even mission stations are recorded. At the time of publication, South Africa was a region of rapid change, with the discovery of diamonds (1867) and gold (1886) transforming its economy and intensifying colonial interests. The map captures the complex political geography leading into the Anglo-Boer conflicts and the consolidation of territories under British influence. Physically, the map is dissected into 24 panels and mounted on linen, as issued, allowing it to be folded into a portable case. This practical format ensured its use in the field by administrators, military officers, and explorers. When fully opened, the map measures approximately 100 × 150 cm (39 × 59 inches), making it a large and visually striking piece. For collectors, this map is a landmark example of late 19th-century South African cartography, combining British colonial ambition with local production. Its size, accuracy, and rich historical context make it a highly desirable artifact for those interested in African exploration, colonial history, or folding maps of the period.

Condition: Very good. Original hand coloring. Linen backing intact with expected fold lines. Light age toning and minor handling wear at panel edges, but overall well-preserved with strong paper and clear printing. See less