Antique Map of the Region of Wakayama, Nara and Osaka 'Japan', ca.1880
€ 950
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Date
1880
Technique
Paper
Sheet size
123 × 80 cm (48.4 × 31.5 in)
Condition
Fair
Reference
BG-11527
Condition
Folding map, mounted on linen. Shows general age-related toning, foxing and some wear. Please study images carefully.
About this sheet
Geological folding map of the area with Wakayama, Nara, Osaka, Mie, and Shiga in Japan, circa 1880:
This map is a geological folding map, which means it was designed to be portable and easily used in the field. Created around 1880, it represents a period in Japanese history when Western scientific methods were increasingly being adopted, including in the field of geology.
The map covers a significant portion of the Kansai region of Japan, including the prefectures of Wakayama, Nara, Osaka, Mie, and Shiga. This area is known for its diverse geological features, ranging from coastal areas to mountainous regions.
As a geological map, it details the various types of rock formations, geological structures, fault lines, and possibly mineral deposits in these areas. The late 19th century was a time of rapid modernization in Japan, and such maps would have been crucial for various purposes, including mining, construction, and educational purposes.
The 1880s was a transformative period in Japan, known as the Meiji era, when the country was undergoing significant modernization and westernization. The creation of a detailed geological map during this time indicates the growing interest in and adoption of Western scientific techniques in Japan.
Since it's a folding map, it has been printed on durable paper and designed to withstand frequent use. The map features color-coding or other visual elements to distinguish different geological features.
This geological map of the Kansai region in Japan is not just a scientific tool but also a historical artifact that reflects the intersection of geography, geology, and the cultural and scientific evolution of Japan during a pivotal era in its history.