Antique Map. Chinese Empire & Japan. C. Smith c1836

by Smith, Charles

Antique map of the Chinese Empire & Japan by Charles Smith.

Original copperplate-engraved map with contemporary hand-colour (from time of publication), for “Smith’s New General Atlas containing Distinct maps of all the Principal Empires, Kingdoms and States throughout the World, Carefully delineated from all the best Authorities” first published in London in 1808 by Charles Smith at No 172 Strand, and reissued several times, including this edition of 1836.

Smith’s major publications were a “New English Atlas” in 1804 (reissued through to 1864), and his “New General Atlas”. His atlases were a great success because of their fine geographical detail, high quality paper and subtle, elegant hand-colouring. They were decorative, with countries or counties outlined, and soft internal water-colouring of the regions shown in each map. By 1834 Charles Smith had become “Mapseller extraordinary to His Majesty” (William IV).

With good wide borders, the paper size is approximately 30 x 40cm ( 15.75 x 12 inches)