Map of British India

This decorative map of British India, published in 1851 by John Tallis and Company, is a stunning example of 19th-century cartography. Engraved by John Rapkin, with vignettes by A.H. Wray and G. Greenbach, the map highlights the Madras, Calcutta, and Bombay Presidencies, as well as planned railway lines throughout the region. The decorative vignettes depict iconic landmarks such as Lahore, the Qutub Minar in Delhi, an Indian procession, and the Beloochees, all framed by an ornate flowered border.

Tallis and Company were map publishers based in London. They traded under various names including L.Tallis, John Tallis and John Tallis & Co.between 1838 and 1850. In 1851 their maps were published by the ‘London Printing and Publishing Co’., in both London and New York. Although he only issued one World Atlas, John Tallis, the founder of the firm, is among the best known of all map makers. The maps with small vignettes issued between 1850 and 1851 to commemorate the Great Exhibition in London are considered the last great series of decorative maps. They combine fine cartographical detail within an attractive border. Around the map there are several small but decorative vignettes depicting particular views, buildings, local inhabitants or the flora and fauna of that region.