A very attractive and detailed mid 19th century city plan of Venice, Italy which was drawn and engraved by W. B. Clarke and R. B. Davies, respectively, and published by the ‘Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge’ (London: 1838). As well as the detailed plan, the map is embellished with an attractive vignette view of St. Mark’s Square, an inset plan of the environs of Venice and various architectural images of the city’s prominent buildings including St. Mark’s Cathedral, the Doge’s Palace and the Rialto Bridge.
‘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 later hand colour.
- Printed area is approximately 48.2cms by 38.2cms (including imprint).
- The map is in very good condition with decent margins; center fold, as issued. Click on image for a better view.
- Click on ‘Delivery Policy’ for postage costs.
- Guaranteed to be over 140 years old.
