Rare Large Map of Cuba by Jose Maria de la Torre
A striking large format map of Cuba by José María de la Torre, this 1873 publication features a decorative hand-colored lithographed view of Havana and is accompanied by three smaller maps highlighting agricultural, fiscal, and ancient details.
José María de la Torre y de la Torre's Mapa Copográfica Pintoresco de la Isla de Cuba is an exceptional work of cartography, showcasing not only the geographical features of the island but also offering valuable insights into its agriculture, economy, and history. Published in New York City by GW & CB Colton, this map stands out as one of the most visually captivating representations of Cuba from the second half of the 19th century.
De la Torre, an accomplished Cuban geographer, archaeologist, historian, and educator, dedicated much of his life to the study of local Cuban history. His expertise is evident in the map's intricate details, such as the color-coded "Mapa Agrícola" inset, which highlights various crops, and the "Mapa Físico" and "Mapa Mineralogico" insets, which provide information on Cuba's physical and mineral resources. Additional features include a comparative chart of the rivers, distinguishing between the "Rios de la costa del Norte" and "... del Sur," and a profile of the island's elevation at the top of the map image.
This rare large map of Cuba by José María de la Torre is a masterful example of 19th-century cartography, capturing the island's geography, natural resources, and history with precision and elegance. The inclusion of thematic insets, detailed keys, and a chromolithographic view of Havana make this map an invaluable resource for understanding Cuba during this period.