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Description

The Northwest Passage Discovered  

This brightly colored map of the world on Mercator's projection offers an exceptional overview of the Canadian Arctic regions shortly after the discovery of the Northwest Passage and location of the lost expedition of John Franklin.

The map vividly depicts Canadian Arctic and Northwest Passage following the discoveries and explorations that defined the search for the Northwest Passage during the mid-19th century. With meticulous detail, it depicts the Arctic Archipelago, focusing on the intricate geography. This cartographic representation reflects the era’s most significant advancements in Arctic exploration, particularly between 1850 and 1855, when the search for Sir John Franklin’s ill-fated expedition and the broader quest to chart the Northwest Passage spurred numerous expeditions.  The discoveries shown on this map match those contained in Philips map of the Arctic Regions . . . from 1855.

The map showcases key locations critical to the eventual discovery of a navigable Northwest Passage, a route connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans through the Arctic. Prominent geographical features, such as Prince of Wales Strait, Banks Island, and the waterways around Wellington Channel, highlight discoveries made during this pivotal period.  

Among the most significant contributions to Arctic exploration was the voyage of Robert McClure aboard HMS Investigator (1850–1854). McClure entered the Arctic through the Bering Strait, discovering Prince of Wales Strait in 1851 and later becoming icebound in Mercy Bay on Banks Island. His crew endured three winters in the Arctic before being rescued by HMS Resolute. McClure’s efforts confirmed the existence of a navigable Northwest Passage, though it was achieved over multiple journeys.

Edward Augustus Inglefield’s 1852 expedition aboard Isabel also contributed to the growing body of Arctic knowledge. Inglefield reached Smith Sound and charted parts of Ellesmere Island, further expanding understanding of northern waterways. Around the same time, Sir Edward Belcher led a British squadron (1852–1854) that systematically explored Wellington Channel and Melville Sound. While Belcher’s expedition faced challenges and abandoned several icebound ships, his sledging parties made critical contributions to mapping previously uncharted regions.

William Penny (1850–1851) and his ships, HMS Lady Franklin and Sophia, focused on the Barrow Strait and Wellington Channel. Penny’s discoveries included Beechey Island, where the graves of three of Franklin’s crew members were found, providing the first tangible evidence of Franklin’s expedition. Horatio Thomas Austin’s 1850–1851 squadron also played a vital role in mapping Barrow Strait, Cornwallis Island, and Cockburn Island. His sledging teams charted these regions with remarkable precision, paving the way for future explorers. Meanwhile, John Rae’s 1851 expedition focused on Boothia Peninsula, incorporating valuable Inuit oral histories and geographic surveys that indirectly influenced searches in the Arctic Archipelago.

This map encapsulates the culmination of decades of Arctic exploration, documenting the hard-earned geographic knowledge that arose from perilous expeditions.   The inclusion of discoveries made by McClure, Penny, Belcher, and others highlights the interplay of persistence, scientific inquiry, and imperial ambition that characterized the era.

As a historical artifact, Philip’s Map of the World is a testament to the relentless human effort to solve the mysteries of the Arctic and secure access to the Northwest Passage. It reflects not only the cartographic achievements of the period but also the enduring legacy of those who ventured into the unknown. 

Rarity

The map is very rare.

We were unable to locate any other examples of the map.

Condition Description
Segmented and laid on linen. Original red covers present.