This large and highly detailed atlas map uses original outline colour to highlight the four historical provinces of Ireland (Connacht, Leinster, Munster and Ulster) and within that the 32 Irish counties. The map uses haturing to show off the topography of the map in elegant detail. Below the map, a small informative icon of Ireland to illustrate the historical divisions and indicate colouring. In the upper right corner, the outline of the southern tip of the Mull of Kintyre (Scotland) and Port Patrick (Isle of Man), which also shows the "Steam Packet" ferry between Ireland and the Isle of Man.



John Arrowsmith (1790-1873) was an English cartographer and publisher based in London. His father, Aaron Arrowsmith (1750-1823) founded the family business which became one of the leading figures in 19th Century map and atlas publishing, revered for their extraordinarily detail and accurate mapping. Following the death of Aaron in 1823, the family firm was passed down through the family to his sons Aaron Jr. (1802-1854) and Samuel (1805-1839).



John Arrowsmith, a cousin of Aaron and Samuel, purchased the remaining stock and copper-plates following the death of Samuel and Aaron leaving the family business to become a minister. He started his own business, and maintained the very high standards the family was recognised for. His work was so successful that he went on to become a founding member of the Royal Geographical Society and served as Hydrographer to Queen Victoria. When he died, a great deal of his inventory was purchased by Edward Stanford (1827-1904), who founded the famous map and book shop "Stanford's" in London.

Original hand colour. [IRE2033]