South-East Europe · 19th century
€ 340
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 fresh and paper is firm and stable.
European Turkey and Greece Map – Balkans and Ionian Islands 1857
This detailed antique print shows “Die Europäische Türkei, Griechenland und die Ionischen Inseln” meaning “European Turkey, Greece and the Ionian Islands.” Published in 1857 by Justus Perthes in Gotha as part of Adolf Stieler’s prestigious Hand-Atlas, this map was created under the cartographic direction of F. v. Stülpnagel and H. Berghaus.
The map covers the entire Balkan Peninsula from the Adriatic Sea across to the Black Sea, including present-day Greece, Albania, Macedonia, Bulgaria, Serbia, Bosnia, Croatia, Romania, and European Turkey. It shows the political borders, towns, rivers, and mountain ranges in fine detail, with the Ionian Islands and Crete (Candia) also clearly delineated.
This map is significant as it depicts the Ottoman Empire’s European territories shortly before the major nationalist uprisings and wars of independence that would reshape the region in the late 19th century. Greece is shown as an independent kingdom while neighbouring territories remain under Ottoman control, reflecting the geopolitical tensions of the period.
Technique: Copperplate engraving with original hand colouring, used to differentiate political borders with subtle hues. German titles and annotations are engraved with clarity typical of Stieler’s cartographic standards.
Condition summary: Excellent condition with strong impression, minimal age toning, and no tears, repairs, or significant foxing. Colours remain fresh and paper is firm and stable.
Framing tips: This Balkans and Greece map will look refined in a dark wood or black frame to highlight its historical gravitas, paired with a wide cream or ivory mount to balance its presentation. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve the engraved detail and original colouring for long-term display.
