The Atlas of Atlases

by Philip Parker

£28.00

A handsomely-illustrated guide to the most significant atlases in history and the cartographers who created them, with a fascinating story of how map-making has developed and changed during the course of human history.

The atlas has been a critical tool throughout history, studied by rulers, explorers, and adventurers to expand empires, engage in warfare, facilitate diplomacy, and promote trade. Written by an expert in the history of maps, Philip Parker, this book provides a thorough and visually stunning account of the history of maps and the dedicated cartographers responsible for creating them.

This comprehensive collection encompasses all significant cartographic works from the past 500 years, including:

  • The Theatrum Orbis Terrarum, considered the world’s first atlas and produced in 1570 by the Dutch, geographer Abraham Ortelius.
  • The 17th-century Klencke – one of the world’s largest books that requires 6 people to carry it
  • The Rand McNally Atlas of 1881, still in print today and a book that turned its makers, William H Rand and Andrew McNally into cartographic royalty.

Hardback

Book contains: 272 pages.

Dimensions: 26.5 x 21 x 3.5cm