Europe Map – Political Divisions and Borders, Published in 1858
€ 340
Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)
Date
1858
Technique
Copperplate engraving with original hand coloring to delineate political borders and territories, using subtle yet precise hues for each region. The German tit
Sheet size
37.5 × 45.4 cm (14.8 × 17.9 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-05552-12
What the condition grades mean
Excellent
Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
Very good
Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
Good
Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
Fair
Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.
Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.
Condition
Condition summary: Excellent condition with strong impression, minimal age toning, no tears or repairs. Colors remain vivid and paper is firm and stable.
About this sheet
Europe Map – Political Divisions and Borders 1858
This fine antique print shows Europe with its political divisions titled “Europa zur Übersicht der politischen Verhältnisse” meaning “Europe showing political conditions.” Published in 1858 by Justus Perthes in Gotha as part of Adolf Stieler’s acclaimed Hand-Atlas, this map presents the continent with national borders clearly outlined and colored, displaying the geopolitical landscape prior to German unification and major 19th-century territorial changes.
The map includes detailed labelling of cities, rivers, and mountain ranges, extending from Iceland and Greenland in the northwest to the Caspian Sea and Caucasus in the east, and down to North Africa in the south. It shows the Austrian Empire, Prussia, the Ottoman Empire, and the Russian Empire with their extensive territories, as well as smaller states such as the Italian duchies and the German principalities, reflecting the complex political structure of Europe before the late 19th-century unifications.
Created under the editorial supervision of Hrn. v. Stülpnagel and cartographer Heinrich Berghaus, the engraving demonstrates Stieler’s commitment to accuracy and clarity, making it an essential reference for historians, collectors, and educators today.
Condition summary: Excellent condition with strong impression, minimal age toning, no tears or repairs. Colors remain vivid and paper is firm and stable.
Framing tips: This political map of Europe will look distinguished in a dark wood or black frame to emphasize its historical and cartographic importance. Pair with a wide ivory or cream mount to soften the presentation and draw attention to its detailed engraving. UV-protective glass is recommended to maintain the crisp lines and original colors for long-term preservation.
