Original antique map with contemporary county outlining and light blue wash around coastline. Drawn and engraved by John Rapkin, with the illustrations by H. Warren & engraved by J. Rogers for John Tallis & Company, London and New York. This map has vignettes of Sydney Cove, The Murray and Xanthorrhea ("black boy").

Tallis and Company established a reputation in both London and New York as publishers of high quality books and grand atlases, by illustrating them with fine steel engravings. The distinctive Tallis style incorporates decoratively engraved cartouche title pieces, borders and “vignettes” of subjects relevant to the main image. Maps included views of major cities, local flora, fauna and people. 

As principal engraver of maps and prints for Tallis, John Rapkin’s ability and finesse was greatly responsible for the Company’s reputation for publishing accurate and visually attractive maps and prints. Illustrations decorating the maps, portraits and views were drawn and then engraved by skilled craftsmen - in reverse from a mirror image. Engraving illustrations was expensive. In 1865 Tallis was among the last of the publishers of beautifully decorated maps and prints. 

Map size: 36 x 28cm (14 x 11 inches).

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