States of Germany.
1850 (dated) 18 x 15 in (45.72 x 38.1 cm)
1 : 1850000
A fine example of G. F. Cruchley's 1850 map of Germany. Cities, towns, rivers, mountains and other topographical features are noted, with relief shown by hachures. The map is color coded according to Germanic states.
This map was made in the years following the European Revolutions of 1848. These liberal uprising swept all though Europe, except Russia and the United Kingdom. Germany was particularly affected by the March Revolution of 1848. These revolutions were nationalist pro-German, pan-German, declarations of discontent with the archaic autocratic political structure that dated to the 39 original German states established under the Holy Roman Empire. The years following the violent suppression of the March Revolution saw a vast middle class exodus from the German states to the United States, leading to 'Germantown USA,' and popular interest among Americans in the Fatherland.
Cruchley's General Atlas was unique for its period, employing a vivid color scheme extending even to the oceans, distinctive typography, and various uncommon decorative elements including a peacock feather crown and an imprint medallion, both of which break the printed border. Though many of the maps in this atlas are copyrighted in 1841, the atlas was first published in 1843 from the Cruchley office at 81 Fleet Street, London, and proving popular went through numerous reissues well into the 1850s.
George Frederick Cruchley (April 23, 1797 - June 16, 1880) was a London based book and map seller active in the middle part of the 19th century. Cruchley began his cartographic career as an apprentice at the venerable Aaroon Arrowsmith firm. Many of Cruchley's earliest maps bear the words "From Arrowsmith's" on the imprint. In 1844 Cruchley acquired the massive stock of the important early 19th century firm of John Cary. Cruchley published his own maps as well as reissues of Cary's stock well into the 1870s. Cruchely is best known for his detailed plans of London, which in recent years have become increasingly scarce and desirable. Cruchley was based in London on 38 Ludgate Street until 1834 when he moved his offices to 81 Fleet Street. Shortly before his death in 1880 Cruchely auctioned (Hodgson's Auctions, Jan 16, 1877) his entire stock. Many of his map plates were thusly acquired by Gall and Inglis who continued the Cruchley tradition well into the early 20th century. Cruchley's son, also George Frederick (1837 - 1882), also continued to work as a book and map seller until his death.
Cruchley, G. F., Selection of Maps from Cruchley's General Atlas, for the use of Schools and Private Tuition, London, 1850.
Very good. Minor wear over original centerfold. Blank on verso.