Africa · 19th century
€ 370
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Condition summary: Excellent condition with strong impression, minimal age toning, and no tears, repairs, or significant foxing. Colours remain vivid and paper is firm and stable.
Southern Africa and Madagascar Map 1857
This detailed antique print shows “Süd-Africa mit Madagascar” meaning “Southern Africa with Madagascar,” published in 1857 by Justus Perthes in Gotha as part of Adolf Stieler’s renowned Hand-Atlas. The map was drawn and engraved under the direction of F. v. Stülpnagel.
It covers Southern Africa from Angola and Mozambique down to the Cape of Good Hope, including territories such as Cape Colony, Natal, and the Orange Free State. Tribal regions, colonial territories, rivers, and mountain ranges are clearly shown, alongside towns such as Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, Durban, and Lourenço Marques (Maputo). The large island of Madagascar is depicted in detail, with its mountain ranges and coastal settlements marked.
This map is significant for its depiction of Southern Africa during a period of expanding European colonial interest and pre-Scramble for Africa exploration. It shows early Boer settlements, Portuguese colonial holdings in Mozambique and Angola, and outlines tribal regions prior to the formal partitioning of Africa in the later 19th century. Madagascar is presented with German-named features and detailed coastlines reflecting European geographical knowledge of the era.
Technique: Copperplate engraving with original hand colouring used to delineate territorial boundaries and regions with clarity. German titles and detailed annotations are engraved with precision, typical of Stieler’s cartographic excellence.
Condition summary: Excellent condition with strong impression, minimal age toning, and no tears, repairs, or significant foxing. Colours remain vivid and paper is firm and stable.
Framing tips: This Southern Africa and Madagascar map will display beautifully in a dark wood or black frame to enhance its historical and geographical presence. Pair with a wide ivory or cream mount to balance its intricate composition and highlight fine engraved details. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve the engraving lines and original colouring for long-term display.
