John Arrowsmith
50 x 61 cm
Geographically, the map is still based on the authoritative Jesuit survey published by Jean Baptiste du Halde in 1735, with the accompanying atlas with maps by D'Anville issued separately first in 1737. The shape of the Korean Peninsula is substantially different than that provided by D'Anville.
Arrowsmith introduces the routes of two early diplomatic missions to China made by the British Government. The first was by Lord Macartney in 1792-4 while the second was by William Pitt, Lord Amherst in 1816-17. Both of these embassies were attempts to gain British influence in China, especially in comparison to the Dutch and the French but unfortunately, both of them were perceived as diplomatic failures although the first was certainly seen as significant event since Macartney's companions all made copious notes about their journey and their impression of Chinese culture, art and the people. These were then edited and published upon their return. Original colour. [SEAS5111]