Johnson’s China Map with Canton Inset, USA Published c.1864 – Hand-Colored
This is a finely engraved and hand-colored map titled Johnson’s China, published by Johnson and Ward in New York circa 1864. It shows detailed political divisions, provinces, and cities of China in the mid-19th century, with bright pastel pink and green wash coloring. The map features an ornate decorative border typical of Johnson’s atlases, adding to its aesthetic appeal.
Notable is the inset at the lower left showing the Bay of Canton (Guangzhou) and the island of Amoy (Xiamen), important trading ports for European and American merchants during this period. The main map depicts cities, towns, rivers, mountain ranges, and coastal features with clarity, including Peking (Beijing), Nanking (Nanjing), Shanghai, Canton, Amoy, and Formosa (Taiwan).
Johnson and Ward were leading map and atlas publishers in the United States during the mid-19th century. Their maps combined accurate cartographic detail with decorative presentation, making them popular for family atlases and educational use. This map reflects American perspectives on China during a time of increasing trade relations and missionary activity.
Condition report:
Good condition. Strong impression with bright original hand coloring. Light general age toning and minor marginal spots or handling marks, typical for antique atlas maps. Small tears around the borders. Wide margins and plate mark intact.
Framing suggestion:
Frame with a simple dark wood or black frame and an archival off-white mat to emphasize the soft pastel coloring and decorative border. Use UV-protective glass to preserve color vibrancy and paper stability.
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