This pair of mid-19th century maps depicts the Orkney Islands and the Shetland Islands, two northern archipelagos of Scotland, in remarkable detail. Published in the Weekly Dispatch atlas and created by Edward Weller, Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society (F.R.G.S.), these maps reflect the period's cartographic precision and growing interest in regional geography.
The map on the left illustrates the Orkney Islands, positioned just north of the Scottish mainland across the Pentland Firth. Key islands such as Mainland, Hoy, and South Ronaldsay are prominently labeled, along with numerous smaller isles, sounds, and firths. The geographic features include detailed coastlines, bays, and waterways, reflecting the navigational importance of the archipelago during the 19th century. Settlements such as Kirkwall, the administrative center of the Orkneys, are clearly marked, alongside natural landmarks like the Old Man of Hoy, a striking sea stack.
On the right, the Shetland Islands are depicted in their full extent, stretching farther north into the North Atlantic. The largest island, Mainland, is prominently labeled, surrounded by smaller islands such as Yell, Unst, and Fetlar. The map captures the intricate coastlines, scattered islets, and numerous bays that characterize the archipelago. Key features include St. Magnus Bay and settlements such as Lerwick, which served as the administrative and economic hub of the Shetlands.