Antique Map of Africa. Natal and Kaffraria, c1854.

by John Tallis & Company

Fine antique map of Natal and Kaffraria with lovely engraved vignettes of the Entrance to Port Natal and a large scene of Port Natal and Town of Durban. As published in 1854, with regions outlined in pen and pale blue wash along the coastline, by London Printing and Publishing Company.  

In 1853 the partnership of John Tallis and Ephraim Tipton Brain formed The London Printing and Publishing Company. John Tallis was the driving force behind the Tallis publishing company, but John Rapkin was largely responsible for Tallis's reputation as publishers of accurate, finely engraved decorative maps. Tallis maps are easily recognized by their steel engraved vignettes of important subjects in the region, and elegantly drawn and engraved borders. Specialist map illustrators drew the illustrations, and then engraved a steel plate, in reverse from a mirror image. The fine engraving required skill and time. Unfortunately it was also expensive. In 1865 Tallis was among the last of the publishers of beautifully decorated maps and prints.

This map is slightly soiled but is otherwise in fine condition, with central horizontal fold for a publication half its size. It is a pity that the top and bottom lacks margins - as cropped for the size of the publication. The price reflects its condition. Size, 278 x 379mm (11 x 15 inches).