1932 The City of Quebec with Historical Notes
By: Samuel Herbert Maw
Date: 1932 (dated) Toronto
Dimensions: 27 x 35 inches (68.5 x 89 cm)
This fascinating pictorial map of Quebec City was drawn by Englishman Samuel Herbert Maw, a talented graphic designer, engineer, architect, and photographer who was active in Quebec in the first decades of the 20th century. With its vibrant colours and use of myriad Art Nouveau motifs, the map is an exceptionally beautiful representative of its genre.
The bird’s eye view focuses on the historical centre of the city, providing a remarkably detailed view of the territory inside the original old walls of the city. The depictions include street names, historical architectural edifices and more modern ones such as the historic hotel built in the late 19th century, the Chateau Frontenac. All buildings are named, including churches, convents, schools, and hospitals. The city’s walls with its watch towers are beautifully rendered. The landing site of Champlain in 1608 is noted, and a famed shield taken from one of the city gates in the 18th century and reinstalled in the 20th is shown, with a lavish depiction of the shield.
A portion of the top border of the map just under the title is embellished with a series of elaborate coats of arms belonging to prominent families who made important contributions to the city. The four corners are emblazoned with the magnificent crests of Champlain, Cartier, Wolfe and Frontenac. Maw also included numerous notes of historic interest including descriptions of events, notable people, even noting sites of buildings which no longer exist. This superb decorative map will be the center of attention wherever it is displayed.
Condition: Map is in A condition issued folded now flat with little signs of wear and only a few minor separations at fold intersections. At the request of the buyer, this map can be linen backed for an additional cost.
Inventory #12807
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