1837 Copenhagen. (Kiobenhaven)
DESCRIPTION
This handsome map of Copenhagen was published in 1837 by the Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge, also referred to as SDUK.
Denmark is almost completely surrounded by water, and Copenhagen itself, the city of 1837, is also surrounded by water. The map shows the spectacular aquatic defenses of the city which had developed over the centuries since the time the site had been a point of departure for Vikings. From this point had set sail explorers, colonizers and marauders and later merchants. Moats around the city provide additional defense running between the city’s double walls which protect its perimeters. All streets are named and buildings labeled. A large castle is denoted, along with fortifications on islands near the city. A panoramic view of the city is presented just below the plan.
The SDUK was founded in 1828 by Henry Peter Brougham, an idealistic British nobleman. The aim of the society was to promote self-education and egalitarian sharing of knowledge by providing instruments of learning such as maps and various other publications. Despite being affiliated with London University and various major publishing houses, the Society ultimately failed to achieve its goal as the publications were too costly for the targeted middle to lower class echelons of British society. At the same time, its publications were not grand or fine enough to appeal to the aristocracy.
CONDITION
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