Beschreibung:

JOHN ARROWSMITH: "THE LONDON ATLAS", 1842. "The London Atlas of Universal Geography, Exhibiting the Physical & Political Divisions of the Various Countries of the World, constructed from Original Materials. Is most respectfully dedicated to his venerable friend John Middleton Esqr. As a Testimony of gratitude and esteem by his much obliged & humble servant. John Arrowsmith, F.R.G.S & R.A.S. 10 Soho Square, London. Published by J.Arrowsmith 10 Soho Square 1842." Containing 50 maps with hand coloured details and borders. Rebound with leather spine, corners and title. The volume 22.25" x 15". Mounted in a Rosewood veneered metamorphic table and stand. The table with a rectangular top with a moulded border resting on a square column with recessed panelled sides, and on a quadriform base with turned feet and recessed castors. The rectangular top opening along its' length to reveal the Atlas in a fitted compartment. The entire top tilting ona pivot with adjustable bolt, the top folding and sliding to support the atlas when open. With a concealed slide below. 29" high x 25" wide x 18.5" deep. PROVENANCE Private collection West Dorset NOTE John Arrowsmith was a member of one of the most important London based families of map makers, eventually taking over the running of the family business and publishing the highly regarded London Atlas. The set of maps in this volume were amongst the best available at the time being compiled from the most up to date information and presented in a pleasing clear manner, the atlas is generally regarded as the first 'modern' Atlas of the Victorian period. A founder member of the Royal Geographical Society he was awarded their gold medal in 1863. This atlas has remained in the same family collection for much of the 20th century. In a remarkable metamorphic library table which was surely commissioned to house the Atlas in a fine gentleman's library, this is one of the most interesting pieces of Victorian Library furniture to have come to the market in many years. Un