1856 Illustrations of the Glacier System of the Alps and of Glacial Phenomena in General
By: Alexander K. Johnston
Date: 1856 (published) Edinburgh
Dimensions: 20 x 24 inches (51 x 61 cm)
This fascinating antique map features the glacier system of the Alps and also provides information regarding glacial phenomena in general. The map was published in the second edition of Johnston's Physical Atlas of Natural Phenomena, out of Edinburgh by William Blackwood & Sons in 1856.
The map provides a close-up view of the remarkable extent of glacial cover in the Alps in the mid-nineteenth century. Johnston's illustrations of their distribution is accompanied by detailed information regarding the names of glaciers and glacial areas, their location and altitude, and the lakes and river systems which these glaciers feed.
Alexander Keith Johnston's Physical Atlas of Natural Phenomena was among the most comprehensive geographic works focusing on natural science of its time. Johnston described the motivations and focus of his work in the preface as follows; The object originally contemplated in this work was to present, in a graphic form, a concise yet comprehensive view of the Physical Geography of the Globe, embracing under that term its superficial structure, the movements of its aerial and oceanic currents, and the distribution of organized existence on its surface.
Accompanying the map is the original letterpress description from the atlas that discusses in detail the methodology, science, and theory used for the production of cartographic work such as this.
Condition: Map is in A+ condition presenting an attractive and vivid imprint on heavy paper with full margins on all sides.
Inventory #12560
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