Geographical and Historical Map of the Roman Empire

Early 19th century map examining the history of the Roman Empire.

This fascinating copperplate engraved map presents a sweeping historical view of the Roman Empire at approximately its greatest territorial extent. Vibrant original color, applied by hand, distinguishes the major provinces while minor regions are labeled throughout. A variety of cities are labeled using their contemporary names (i.e. London, rather than Londinium) and numerous small flags identify the sites of major conflicts like Cannae, the Battle of Placentia, and the Battle of the Catalaunian Plains.

Roman numerals note the approximate locations where legions were stationed across the frontier. Surrounding the image are several blocks of text that provide additional details about the history of the Roman Empire. Information on the political organization, a timeline of events, population demographics, and a summary of the campaigns of Hannibal are all provided.

The map was originally designed by Charles Gros for inclusion in M. Lavoisne’s A Complete Genealogical, Historical & Chronological Atlas. This particular example was engraved by John Yeager and taken from an edition published in Philadelphia in 1821 by Matthew Carey & Sons.