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This rare postal map from 1799, depicting Upper Hungary and Transylvania, is part of the seminal work by Franz Johann Joseph von Reilly and Christian Gottlieb Kuhn: the Atlas Universae rei veredariae bilinguis. The atlas, a groundbreaking achievement in cartographic history, is recognized as the first postal atlas of Europe. It meticulously outlines the postal routes across the continent in the late 18th century, representing a vital communication network that shaped European infrastructure.
Hungary and Transylvania are shown with postal routes clearly demarcated, reflecting the precision and systematization that characterized Von Reilly and Kuhn’s work. Despite the map's lack of topographical features, the focus on postal routes emphasizes its function over form, aligning with the utilitarian nature of the atlas. This practical approach offers a rare glimpse into the postal system of a key European region during a period of significant territorial and political change.
The Allgemeiner Postatlas von der ganzen Welt consists of 40 maps, each providing detailed depictions of postal routes across Europe. In its time, this atlas was a vital resource for managing and navigating the extensive postal networks. The map of Upper Hungary and Transylvania stands out for the clarity with which it conveys the organization of postal services, reflecting the essential role of communication in both urban centers and rural areas.
Published in Vienna, the atlas is a testament to the burgeoning postal system of the era, laying the groundwork for modern communications infrastructure. Its rarity today underscores its historical value, providing not only a functional depiction of the late 18th-century postal network but also a cultural and political document that traces the reach of imperial and regional powers through their communication channels.
