Ancient Palestine finely engraved decorative antique map. Tallis c1850.

$450.00

First edition Ancient Palestine antique map by J. & F. Tallis c1850, with vignettes of Tomb of Absalom, Syrian Sheep, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Nazareth, and Ancient Cedars of Lebanon. Pen outlining of regions and pale blue wash along the coastline, are contemporary (from time of publication). Additional subtle hand-colour at a later date. 

The initial partnership of Tallis publishers was John and his brother Frederick. John Tallis was the driving force for over 15 years. From the beginning John Rapkin drew and engraved all the maps for Tallis and Company, and 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 illustrations for this map were drawn by H. Warren and engraved by J.B. Allen. 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 is a beautiful antique map of Palestine (without the usual central fold). While the map has slight age discolouration as is to be expected it is in fine condition with wide margins. Page size, 370 x 265mm (approximately 14 1/2 x 10 1/2 inches).

Out of stock