Chart of the World on Mercator’s Projection

Detailed snapshot of the world from the mid-19th century.

This skillfully engraved map provides a fascinating global overview at about 1852. Political outlines are largely omitted and attractive hand color delineates six continents, with the incomplete and often sketchy coastlines of Antarctic attributed to the Wilkes Expedition of 1840. Cook’s voyages are noted, though nearing a century old; but more recent discoveries in Africa and at the poles are reflected within the image.

The map is issued on Mercator’s Projection, “the best for the purposes of navigation” (according to the note in the lower left) because it allows the plotting of direct courses. The 32-point compass rose in the lower right would have also been useful in charting accurate routes. This steel engraving was published by A.K. Johnston as portion of his National Atlas.