Monumental folding map of the
world. English version of Berghaus's important map of the world emphasising
shipping routes and physical geography.

Particularly nice example of
Hermann Berghaus’s impressive folding chart of the world. First issued in 1863,
the focus of the map is physical geography and the commercial logistics chains
being established around the globe, particularly shipping routes and railways,
many of which were still being planned. 

A small but dense key panel on
the lower right centre identifies the multitude of shipping lines and their
nationalities featured on the map. The distinctive colouring locates the biomes
of the world, with biological fertility identified by the deepest ochre,
gradually lessening in intensity until fading completely to show deserts or
their equivalent. Other biomes identified include steppes, bush fields, savanna
and tundra. 

Complimenting these terrestrial
biomes, the map also shows the known sea currents, areas of maritime vegetation
known as the “Sargasso Seas” as well as a charming illustration of the edge of
the northern and southern ice caps. <br> <br>

As it is using English, the map
was aimed at the international market. It was evidently popular as it was
issued in at least fourteen editions, from 1863 to c.1909. The presence of
numerous insets varied from edition to
edition with this specific one showing a particularly large number. They focus on
important marine ports, straits and channels. 

This particular example of the
map is the 6th edition published in 1871. Its original case bears a label
identifying it as formerly the stock of Edward Stanford.

Printed colour. Case included.