A very attractive and detailed mid 19th century city plan of Genoa, Italy, with an inset ‘sketch of the Outworks’, which was ‘published under the Superintendance of the Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge’ (London: Baldwin & Craddock, 1832 -1845). The plan is further embellished in the lower border with architectural views of the city’s prominent buildings including the Lighthouse, the Ducal (Doge’s) Palace and the Cathedral of San Lorenzo (St. Lawrence)
‘The Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge’ (S.D.U.K.), founded in 1826, was a philanthropist organisation established with the purpose of supplying the public with accessible and affordable educational material, particularly in the form of maps. The 19th century had, as a result of both the agricultural and industrial revolution, seen an increase in population, urbanisation and literacy. These resulting changes had lead to concerns that the urban masses could be influenced by cheap, radical and seditious forms of literature, which in turn, would lead to major social unrest and possible revolution. The S.D.U.K. sort to remedy this problem with more beneficial forms of education. Despite producing many fine works/maps and inspiring an American movement of the same name, the S. D. U. K. was to enjoy only moderate success and folded in 1848; nevertheless, its maps were republished by various publishers into the 1880s.
- This is an original steel engraving with original hand colour.
- Printed area is approximately 37.1cms by 30.1cms (including imprint).
- The map is in very good condition with decent margins. There is a very faint crease running through otherwise a clean example. Click on image for a better view.
- Click on ‘Delivery Policy’ for postage costs.
- Guaranteed to be over 170 years old.
