Joseph Hutchins Colton was a self-made map publisher who founded one of the leading map- making firms in North America if not the world. From humble beginnings in 1831, his firm grew into a huge cartographic establishment which produced maps for a worldwide audience and in many ways symbolised the 19th century American style of cartography.

This specific map formed part of one of the Colton firm's specialities, namely large wall maps designed for educational purposes, such as schools and universities. What is unusual about this example is that often these pieces were varnished and had wooden rollers along the upper and lower margins which allowed them to be hung in classrooms or libraries. This is not the case with this map, which accounts for its extraordinary condition and particularly striking contemporary hand-colour.

The geography of this map was originally compiled and engraved in 1848-9 and first issued in 1850. It must have been successful as it was updated and re-issued throughout this period although editions from the mid 1850s are very rare. The decoration around the map is archetypal Colton with grape and vine motifs intertwined with a series of vignettes. There are other maps with this pattern associated with Colton's firm dating back to the early 1830s.

One final point of interest is the dating of this piece. It quite clearly states that it was issued in 1854, yet the address on the piece is "No. 172 William St., New York". According to the noted authority, William Ristow, the Colton firm did not move to that address until 1855. This suggests that the map was engraved in preparation for the move in 1854, but that it was delayed for some reason until the following year.

Original colour. Framed.

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