New South Wales (& Qld.) Tallis antique map c1851
$350.00
Finely engraved antique map of New South Wales and north to Hervey Bay in Queensland (prior to separation of Queensland as a state from 1859). John Tallis antique map circa 1851, Drawn and Engraved by John Rapkin, with Illustrations by A. Warren, Engraved by J. Rogers for John Tallis & Company, London and New York. Contemporary pen outlining of county, state and coast, and light blue wash around coastline. Decorative cartouche, border, and vignettes of Sydney Cove, The Murray and Xanthorrhaea (known as the Grass Tree).
Tallis and Company established an excellent reputation as publishers of high quality books and grand atlases by illustrating them with fine steel engravings. 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 with borders of foliage or architectural motifs.
As principal engraver of maps and prints for Tallis, John Rapkin’s skill and accuracy was greatly responsible for the Company’s reputation. The finely engraved Illustrations were drawn and then engraved by skilled craftsmen – in reverse from a mirror image. Engraving illustrations was slow and expensive. In 1865 Tallis was among the last of the publishers of beautifully decorated maps and prints.
This map is in good condition except for being cropped close to the decorative border at the top and base. The map has an almost undiscernable central horizontal fold which accommodated publication in an atlas half its size. This map measures 350 x 270mm (13 3/4 x 10 5/8 inches).
