Post-Diluvian Patriarchs Chrono-Genealogical Chart — Biblical Timeline, Wilkinson 1823
This finely engraved and delicately hand-colored chrono-genealogical chart titled “Chrono-Genealogical Chart of the Second Age of the World, or the Post-Diluvian Patriarchs, from the Deluge to the Call of Abraham: including the Foundation of Nations and the Origin of Languages” was published in London in 1827 as part of Wilkinson’s Atlas Classica, a scholarly work devoted to sacred history and classical geography. The chart presents a visual timeline tracing biblical genealogy following the Great Flood, illustrating the lineage from Noah through the patriarchal generations leading to Abraham.
Designed as an early historical infographic, the composition combines genealogy, chronology, and narrative interpretation into a structured visual framework. Vertical bars represent successive patriarchal lifespans and genealogical lines, allowing viewers to understand overlapping generations and the emergence of early nations. The chart also integrates historical and theological commentary, including references to Nimrod, the Tower of Babel, and the division of languages, reflecting nineteenth-century scholarly attempts to reconcile scriptural chronology with historical and ethnographic understanding.
Executed in refined copperplate engraving typical of early nineteenth-century London atlas production, the plate demonstrates both intellectual clarity and aesthetic balance. Soft original hand coloring distinguishes genealogical branches and enhances readability while maintaining visual harmony. Such charts were produced during a period when biblical scholarship increasingly embraced visual systems inspired by Enlightenment classification and early information design.
Chronological charts from Atlas Classica are particularly appealing to collectors because they occupy a unique position between cartography, theology, and graphic history. This example provides insight into early nineteenth-century approaches to sacred history while also functioning as a visually striking decorative object. The balanced horizontal format makes it ideal for framing and suitable for both scholarly collections and refined interior display.
Condition report: Good overall condition for age. Light age toning and minor foxing consistent with early nineteenth-century paper. 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.
Technique: Copperplate engraving with original hand color Maker: Wilkinson, London, 1827
Keyword block (important names and concepts visible on the chart): Post-diluvian patriarchs, Noah, Shem, Ham, Japheth, Arphaxad, Salah, Eber, Peleg, Reu, Serug, Nahor, Terah, Abraham, Genesis genealogy, Tower of Babel, Nimrod, division of languages, foundation of nations, biblical chronology, sacred timeline, Old Testament genealogy, early world history, patriarchal lineage, biblical infographic, genealogical chart, sacred history visualization, Atlas Classica, scriptural chronology, early data visualization, Enlightenment scholarship, biblical studies.
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