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Description

Rare Late State!

This engraved chart, titled Table of the Lengths of the Principal Rivers in the World, is a striking pictorial representation of the world's major rivers, first published as part of John Thomson's New General Atlas in 1830 and later reissued by George Philip & Son.

The chart uniquely organizes rivers from various continents in a comparative visual layout, with the Amazon River featured prominently as the longest at approximately 3,100 miles. Other significant rivers include the Ob and Volga of Russia, the Hoang Ho (Yellow River) of China, and the Nile, whose full length was not yet understood and is recorded at 2,000 miles.

The upper left corner features a detailed table categorizing the rivers by continent and length, while a scale at the border measures distances in miles. Surrounding the rivers are intricate depictions of mountain ranges, volcanoes, and trees, though none are explicitly labeled. The lower portion of the chart presents an ocean scene, with sailing ships navigating near the river mouths and a lighthouse perched on a rocky outcrop, adding a maritime element to the composition.

A decorative title cartouche at the top, adorned with foliage and a lounging figure, frames the chart with an ornate aesthetic. The rivers and their sources are arranged methodically, providing both an artistic and informative comparison.  

Rarity

This is the first time we have offered this chart for sale (1992-2024).