Eastern Hemisphere decorative Tallis antique map, c1850.

by Tallis, J. & F.

First Edition Tallis Eastern Hemisphere antique map c1850, with 'Australia Felix' as part of New South Wales. Intricately engraved vines encircling animals and people from the regions within the Eastern Hemisphere. This is undoubtedly the most beautiful, intricately engraved Eastern Hemisphere map ever published. Tallis maps were noted for their embellishment by decorative borders and small 'vignette' views depicting important places, natives, flora and fauna of the region of the map. This Eastern Hemisphere map is completely surrounded by engraved people and animals (including interesting kangaroos), each viewed in a circle surrounded by twining vines with foliage, vegetables and fruit.

This is an original steel-engraved map published in 1850 by the partnership of J. & F. Tallis of London and New York. The outlining of the countries and steamship routes are contemporary (done at the time of publication), as was the pale blue outline wash of the engraving-highlighted coastlines. The additional later fine hand-colour to the surrounding engravings certainly makes this a most spectacular map!

Following in their publisher father's footsteps, John and Frederick set up their own publishing firm in 1850. Frederick left the partnership in 1851 but John Tallis & Company flourished, and acquired a reputation as publishers of high quality illustrated books and grand atlases, illustrated by fine steel engravings. John Rapkin who drew and engraved the maps with accuracy and fine detail, was greatly responsible for the company's fine reputation. Tallis maps were among the last decorative maps published, as this extra labour-intensive skilled work added considerably to the cost of production.

This map is in good condition, although cropped relatively close to the cartouche and to the title at the base, and reinforcing restoration tape is at base of central vertical fold (that enabled inclusion in an atlas half the size of the map). Map size is 27 x 37cm (10.5/8 x 14.1/2 inches).