About this sheet
Chrono-Genealogical Chart Third Age of the World — Israelites Exodus, 1823
This finely engraved and delicately hand-colored chrono-genealogical chart titled “Chrono-Genealogical Chart of the Third Age of the World, from the Call of Abraham to the Exodus; or the Israelites Leaving Egypt” 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 visually narrates one of the most important periods in biblical history, tracing the genealogical and chronological progression from Abraham through the patriarchal lineage to the Exodus from Egypt.
Designed as an early historical infographic, the composition combines genealogy, narrative structure, and chronological data into a structured visual framework. Vertical colored bars represent patriarchal lifespans and generational relationships, allowing viewers to interpret overlapping timelines and the development of the Israelite tribes. Key biblical figures such as Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, and Aaron appear within a complex but carefully organized visual system that reflects nineteenth-century scholarly attempts to synthesize scriptural narrative into a chronological model.
The lower section continues the genealogical structure, detailing the progenitors of the tribes of Israel and the historical sequence leading toward the Exodus. Explanatory text panels reference major biblical events including the migration into Egypt, the growth of the Israelite population, and the establishment of tribal identity. This structured approach reflects Enlightenment-era interests in classification, historical visualization, and educational clarity.
Executed in refined copperplate engraving typical of early nineteenth-century London atlas production, the chart demonstrates precision, elegant typography, and visual balance. Soft original hand coloring distinguishes genealogical branches and enhances readability while maintaining harmonious aesthetic appeal. Such plates occupy a unique position between cartography, historical scholarship, and graphic design history, making them particularly desirable among collectors of biblical material and early information graphics.
The horizontal format makes this chart especially suitable for framing and display, functioning equally well as an intellectual focal point or as part of a curated grouping with related biblical maps and chronological charts from the Wilkinson series.
Condition report: Good overall condition for age. Light age toning and scattered 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 design, creating a refined museum-style presentation suitable for classic or contemporary interiors.
Technique: Copperplate engraving with original hand color
Maker: Wilkinson, London, 1827
Keyword block (important names and concepts visible on the chart):
Third Age of the World, Israelites Exodus, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Aaron, Israelites, Exodus from Egypt, biblical genealogy, patriarchal lineage, tribes of Israel, Genesis chronology, Old Testament timeline, sacred chronology, Israelite history, biblical infographic, sacred history visualization, early data visualization, Atlas Classica, scriptural timeline, biblical studies, early chronology charts, Enlightenment scholarship, genealogical diagram.
