About this sheet
Chrono-Genealogical Chart Fifth Age of the World — Wilkinson 1827
This finely engraved and delicately hand-colored chrono-genealogical chart titled “Chrono-Genealogical Chart of the Fifth Age of the World, from the Dedication of the Temple by Solomon to the Babylonish Captivity, including the High Priests, with the Kings of Judah and Israel” was published in London in 1827 as part of Wilkinson’s Atlas Classica, a scholarly atlas devoted to sacred history, biblical chronology, and classical geography. The chart presents a structured visual timeline illustrating the political and religious history of the Israelite kingdoms during a transformative period of biblical narrative.
Designed as an early historical infographic, the composition integrates genealogy, royal succession, and historical chronology into a complex but carefully organized visual framework. Vertical bars represent lifespans, reigns, and genealogical lines, allowing viewers to understand overlapping leadership and the parallel histories of the kingdoms of Judah and Israel. Text panels highlight major historical events, including prophetic eras, political transitions, and the eventual Babylonian conquest and exile, reflecting nineteenth-century scholarly interpretations of scriptural chronology.
Executed in refined copperplate engraving typical of early nineteenth-century London atlas production, the plate demonstrates clarity of design, elegant typography, and meticulous visual organization. Soft original hand coloring distinguishes genealogical and political branches, enhancing readability while maintaining aesthetic harmony. Such chronological charts reflect Enlightenment-era efforts to present sacred history through structured visual analysis and early forms of data visualization.
Chronological plates from Atlas Classica are particularly appealing to collectors because they bridge biblical scholarship, historical cartography, and graphic design history. This example forms part of a broader narrative sequence illustrating successive ages of the biblical world, making it especially 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 focal point 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.
