Map of the Island of Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago, 1899

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An original late-19th-century scientific map of the Batanes and Babuyan Islands groups, located north of Luzon series, reflects the meticulous … Read more An original late-19th-century scientific map of the Batanes and Babuyan Islands groups, located north of Luzon series, reflects the meticulous cartographic and geophysical work carried out at the Manila Observatory during the final years of Spanish administration and the early American period in the Philippines. The engraving details the northernmost islands of the Philippine archipelago, including Batan, Sabtang, Itbayat, and Calayan. An inset map of the Palaui area near Cape Engaño provides additional topographical reference. The map’s fine lithographic shading conveys relief and coastal contours with precision, while the Observatory’s embossed seal, “Manila Observatory – Philippine Islands,” authenticates the plate. The Manila Observatory, founded in 1865 by the Jesuits, became the leading meteorological and seismological institution in Asia, producing some of the most accurate scientific maps of the region. These maps were later incorporated into the United States Coast and Geodetic Survey after the turn of the century, marking a transition between colonial scientific traditions. This sheet represents a significant document of early Philippine scientific cartography and offers a rare glimpse of the islands before the widespread influence of modern mapping methods.

Condition report: Excellent impression with crisp detail and original color tones. Light toning to margins and minor handling consistent with age. Embossed seal of the Observatory clearly visible.
Technique: Lithograph on paper Maker: Manila Observatory, Philippines See less