1856 The Phenomena of Volcanic Action
By: Alexander K. Johnston
Date: 1856 (published) Edinburgh
Dimensions: 20 x 24 inches (51 x 61 cm)
This is an early geologic map depicting phenomena of volcanic action across the globe, including the precise location of volcanoes according to knowledge available in the mid-eighteenth century. It also depicts many regions visited by earthquakes. The map was published in the 2nd edition of Johnston's Physical Atlas of Natural Phenomena, out of Edinburgh by William Blackwood & Sons in 1856.
Much of the information in the map would correspond to modern day knowledge and understanding. Multiple insets depict specific volcanoes in their precise topographical locale throughout the world. Information regarding the incidence of earthquakes worldwide is depicted by areas encircled by lines of various colours. There are areas where information was obviously lacking, with one of the most interesting omissions being that of the western coast of Anatolia, which has always had a very high incidence of earthquakes.
At the time of publication, Alexander Keith Johnston's Physical Atlas of Natural Phenomena was amongst the most comprehensive geographic works to focus on natural science. 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 in the making 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. Faint offsetting is apparent throughout the map, but does not distract from the overall work.
Inventory #12561
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