Monday

Today's Rare Map: 1725 Map of Africa

Vintage 1725 Africa Map: Africa, from the observations of the Royal Society.

Map by John Senex: Africa, corrected from the observations of the Royal Society at London and Paris. High Resolution image suitable for large or small copies.

John Senex (1678, London – buried 1740, London) was an English cartographer, engraver and explorer. He was also an astrologer, geologist to Queen Anne of Great Britain, editor and seller of antique maps and most importantly creator of the pocket-size map of the world.

He was in particular, one of the principal cartographers of the 18th century. He started his apprenticeship with Robert Clavell, at the Stationers Company, in 1692. Senex is famous for his maps of the world, some of which have added elevations, and which feature minuscule detailed engravings. Many of these maps can be found in museum collections; rarely, copies are available for private sale. Some copies are held in the National Maritime Museum; many of his maps are now in the possession of Trinity College Dublin. Having worked and collaborated with Charles Price, Senex created a series of engravings for the London Almanacs and in 1714 he published together with Maxwell an English Atlas. In 1719 he published a miniature edition of Brittania by Ogilby. He became particularly interested in depicting California as an island instead of part of mainland North America, a trait which makes many of his maps appealing to collectors. In 1721 he published a new general atlas.

In 1728 Senex was elected into the Fellowship of the Royal Society of London.

Enjoy!





1 comment:

  1. Wow rare maps are hard to find because some of these are considered to be historical treasures. I enjoyed reading your blog. Oh in case you plan to rent college textbooks then drop by our site. thanks

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