1816 Peru, Chili and La Plata
DESCRIPTION
This beautiful antique map covers a large portion of the southern part of South America, including Peru, Chile, Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, Brazil and what would become Bolivia.
The map is engraved in the minimalist English style pioneered in the early part of the 19th century, a style which reduced maps’ decorative elements to a minimum. Relief is shown by hachure with towns, cities, and major topographical features identified. Important mountains in the Andes such as the tallest peak, Aconcagua, are named. The great La Plata river system is depicted in detail.
Additionally, many indigenous tribes are noted throughout the map, often within proximity to regions labeles "Unknown Territory." Some of these native peoples such as the Pampas and Tuyu are specifically identified while other ares suggest "Cannibal Indians," and site "Indian Nations, little known." This reflects both the illusiveness and seclusion of these indigenous tribes as well as the lack understanding of the interior of South America, from a cartographic and anthropologic standpoint.
Within a few years of publication of the map, in 1821, Peru was proclaimed independent. Antonio Jose de Sucre, a Venezuelan independence leader and one of Simon Bolivar's closest friends, was given an option of either uniting with the United Provinces of Rio de la Plata, staying under the newly formed Republic of Peru, or creating a new nation. He chose the latter.
John Thomson (1777 - 1841) was a Scottish cartographer, publisher, and bookbinder active in Edinburgh during the early part of the 19th century. Thomson apprenticed under Edinburgh bookbinder Robert Alison. Thomson was one of the leading publishers in the Edinburgh school of cartography, which flourished in the early decades of the 19th century. Thomson and his contemporaries (Pinkerton and Cary) redefined European cartography by abandoning typical 18th century decorative elements such as elaborate title cartouches and fantastic beasts in favor of detail and accuracy.
CONDITION
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