Antique Hand-Colored Political Map of Italy, 1860

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This finely detailed antique map depicts northern italy during the pivotal period of italian unification, capturing the political landscape of … Read more This finely detailed antique map depicts northern italy during the pivotal period of italian unification, capturing the political landscape of the italian peninsula on the eve of the risorgimento. Issued in 1860 as part of the imperial atlas of modern geography* the map was published by w. G. Blackie & son and reflects british cartographic scholarship at a moment of major european transformation. The map covers lombardy, piedmont, venetia, tuscany, liguria, emilia-romagna, and the papal states, with borders carefully hand-colored to distinguish the various states and spheres of influence, including austrian-controlled territories. Major cities such as milan, turin, venice, genoa, florence, bologna, and verona are clearly marked, alongside an extensive network of rivers, roads, and towns. Natural features are rendered with delicate engraved relief, showing the alps, apennines, and the fertile po valley in fine detail. An inset map of sardinia appears in the lower left, emphasizing the strategic importance of the kingdom of sardinia, which would soon become the driving force behind italian unification. The composition balances political clarity with refined topographical engraving, making it both an informative historical document and a visually elegant work on paper. Produced for an english-speaking audience, this map reflects 19th-century british interest in continental politics, geography, and emerging nation-states. Today, it appeals equally to collectors of antique maps, historians of italy, and interior designers seeking a sophisticated and intellectually resonant wall piece.

condition report: good antique condition. Light overall toning consistent with age; minor scattered foxing and faint surface marks, mainly in the margins. Original fold lines as issued. Plate mark visible.
technique: copper engraving with original hand coloring maker: w. G. Blackie & son, glasgow, edinburgh & london, 1860 See less