1814 Holland
By: John Thomson
Date: 1814 (Published) Edinburgh
Dimensions: 24 x 20 inches (61 x 51 cm)
This superb large format map from Thomson’s New General Atlas features one of the Low Countries – Holland. 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 all identified.
The area long referred to as the Long Fourteen is shown in fine stipling. This area of the North Sea is consistently fourteen fathoms deep, with soundings at many points along it always notated on sea charts. Thus the sand bar came to be known as the Long Fourteen. The area has been the site of many naval battles throughout history. Modern vessels, especially oil tankers, must avoid the area or risk being stranded.
The map is highly detailed, depicting dikes, canals, along with numerous other topographical details, including pictorial depictions of the many low-lying marshy areas in Holland. Government divisions are shown and named. This is a fascinating map of a fascinating part of Europe, which aptly illustrates the ingenuity and determination of its peoples in wresting land from the sea.
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: This superb large format map on heavy paper is in A condition. Original colouring.
Inventory #11928
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