About this sheet
Chrono-Genealogical Chart Fourth Age of the World — Wilkinson 1807
This finely engraved and delicately hand-colored chrono-genealogical chart titled “Chrono-Genealogical Chart of the Fourth Age of the World, from the Exodus from Egypt to the Dedication of the Temple by Solomon, including the Judges and High Priests” was published in London in 1827 as part of Wilkinson’s Atlas Classica, a scholarly work devoted to sacred history, biblical chronology, and classical geography. The chart visually interprets the historical and genealogical development of the Israelite nation during the period spanning the Exodus through the era of the Judges and culminating in the establishment of the Temple under King Solomon.
Designed as an early historical infographic, the composition combines genealogy, chronology, and narrative commentary within a structured visual system. Vertical bars represent lifespans and historical sequences, allowing viewers to understand overlapping generations, leadership succession, and major biblical events within a single integrated framework. Text panels reference key milestones such as the giving of the Law, the period of the Judges, early Israelite governance, and the transition toward centralized monarchy and temple worship.
Executed in refined copperplate engraving typical of early nineteenth-century London atlas production, the chart demonstrates clarity of design, elegant typography, and careful visual organization. Soft original hand coloring distinguishes genealogical lines and chronological phases, enhancing readability while maintaining aesthetic harmony. Such charts reflect Enlightenment-era scholarly attempts to present sacred history through structured visual analysis and early data visualization techniques.
Chronological plates from Atlas Classica are especially appealing to collectors because they occupy a unique position between cartography, biblical scholarship, and graphic design history. This example forms part of a broader narrative sequence illustrating the progression of biblical history through successive ages, making it particularly desirable when paired with related charts from the same series.
The horizontal format makes this plate highly suitable for framing and display, functioning equally well as an intellectual centerpiece or as part of a curated gallery wall focused on sacred or historical themes.
Condition report: Good overall condition for age. Light age toning and minor foxing consistent with early nineteenth-century paper. Minor marginal wear from atlas removal. Original hand color remains attractive and well preserved.
Framing tips: A dark walnut or warm brown frame combined with a generous ivory or off-white mat enhances the pastel coloring and emphasizes the structured graphic layout, creating a refined museum-style presentation suitable for both classic and contemporary interiors.
Technique: Copperplate engraving with original hand color
Maker: Wilkinson, London, 1827
Keyword block (important names and concepts visible on the chart):
Fourth Age of the World, Exodus, Israelites, Judges of Israel, High Priests, Solomon’s Temple, Dedication of the Temple, Moses, Aaron, Joshua, Samuel, David, Solomon, biblical chronology, Old Testament timeline, sacred history chart, Israelite leadership, biblical genealogy, temple history, early monarchy, scriptural timeline, Atlas Classica, sacred chronology, early data visualization, biblical studies, genealogical diagram, Enlightenment scholarship.
