Victoria or Port Phillip, John Tallis antique map c1851.

by John Tallis & Company

Antique Tallis map of Victoria before gold rush, published by John Tallis & Company, London and New York.

This map was drawn and engraved by John Rapkin (who as principal engraver was responsible for the fine reputation of Tallis and Co. Illustrations by A. Warren were engraved by J. Rogers, with contemporary pen outlining of county, state and coast, and light blue wash around coastline. Decorative cartouche, border, and vignettes of Melbourne, Kangaroos, Natives, and River Glenelg which runs from the Grampians in Victoria to Adelaide in South Australia.

The distinctive Tallis style incorporates decoratively engraved cartouche, borders and vignette scenes relative to the subject or area depicted. Maps included local views, flora, fauna and people. The illustrations were drawn and then engraved by skilled craftsmen - in reverse from a mirror image. Engraving illustrations was expensive. (By 1865 Tallis was among the last of the publishers of beautifully decorated maps and prints.)

The page size is 27 x 35cm (10 5/8  x 13 3/4 inches), with central vertical fold as issued to accommodate a smaller publication. In good condition with slight soiling, as is to be expected from handling over the centuries.