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Description

This meticulously detailed wall map of Palestine, created by Heinrich Kiepert and published in Berlin in 1890, offers a comprehensive view of the region, primarily focusing on the western part of the Jordan River.  The map notes that it is "Newly Revised Edition of the Area West of the Jordan Based on the Latest English Survey.

The map was designed as a scholarly aid and instructional tool, using a combination of topographical shading and contour lines to depict the varied terrain, including mountain ranges, valleys, and rivers, while identifying ancient cities, biblical sites, and tribal territories with precision. Notable features include the detailed delineation of the Jordan River's course and the Dead Sea, along with major historical sites such as Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and Jericho.  

The "English survey" referenced in the title refers to the Survey of Western Palestine conducted by the Palestine Exploration Fund (PEF) between 1871 and 1877. This survey was a landmark project in cartographic history, carried out by British surveyors such as Claude Reignier Conder and Horatio Herbert Kitchener. The survey mapped the region west of the Jordan River with remarkable accuracy and detail for the time, providing extensive topographical and archaeological data.  The PEF survey became a foundational reference for many European maps of Palestine in the late 19th century, as it was considered the most comprehensive and scientifically rigorous study of the region.  

The first inset, located in the upper left corner, illustrates the tribal divisions of ancient Israel, ascribed to the descendants of Leah, Rachel, Bilhah, and Zilpah. Color-coded regions highlight the allocation of land among the twelve tribes, while key locations such as Samaria and Jerusalem are clearly marked. This inset provides an interpretive view of biblical history, emphasizing the political and cultural organization of the region during the biblical era. A legend explains the colors representing the different maternal groups of the tribes, adding depth to the historical understanding of the territory. 

The second inset, prominently displayed at the bottom of the map, offers a detailed plan of Jerusalem. It delineates the ancient city’s walls, gates, and key landmarks, such as the Temple Mount, the City of David, and the Mount of Olives. The map also identifies historical and religious sites, including the Herodian Temple, the Pool of Siloam, and Golgotha.   

Rarity

The map is quite scarce on the market, likely owing to its size.

States

We are aware of several states of the map, including states dated 1874, 1883, 1890, 1900 and 1911.

Condition Description
Segmented and laid on linen, with minor chips at margins.