1912 J G Bartholomew LITERARY & HISTORICAL ATLAS OF ASIA Everyman's Maps Gilt

This distinguished volume is bound in the publisher's original ribbed reddish-purple cloth, featuring a striking gilt title and elaborate decorative motifs on the spine. The front cover is adorned with a distinct embossed publisher's device, showcasing the "Aldine House" tree emblem. A comprehensive cartographic work, "A Literary & Historical Atlas of Asia" offers a unique blend of literary and historical geography. The book is richly illustrated with a substantial collection of full-color maps, expertly crafted by John Bartholomew & Co. These maps depict ancient civilizations, historical empires, and geographical features across Asia at various periods, including specific sections for Palestine (Old and New Testament), India, China, the East Indies, and more. Beyond the detailed geographical representations, the atlas also contains clear line maps illustrating key historical battles in India and black and white photographic plates showcasing ancient Asian coinage. The title page and half-title are particularly notable for their intricate Art Nouveau/Arts & Crafts style decorative borders and initial capital, adding significant aesthetic appeal. Historical & Collectible Context: This atlas is a significant and sought-after volume within the renowned "Everyman's Library" series (No. 552), originally published by J. M. Dent & Sons around 1912. J. G. Bartholomew, a highly respected Scottish cartographer, was celebrated for his innovative and detailed mapmaking, making his contributions to the series particularly valuable. "A Literary & Historical Atlas of Asia" reflects early 20th-century scholarship in historical geography and cartography, tracing the evolution of Asian territories and cultures through its meticulously curated maps and accompanying text. The "Everyman's Library" editions, with their distinctive publisher's bindings and quality production, are highly collectible, especially those in their original format. Bartholomew's atlases within the series are prized by collectors for their accuracy, detail, and their contribution to historical understanding. The decorative elements, including the bright gilt spine and the intricate Arts & Crafts style title page design, are characteristic of the period and enhance its collectible appeal. Condition: Exterior - Spine condition: Strong, with bright gilt lettering and decorative elements. There is minor rubbing to spine ends. - Boards/covers: Solid reddish-purple ribbed cloth. The front cover has a distinct embossed publisher's device. Corners are square with minimal wear. - Edge wear: There is light shelf wear to board edges. - Gilt condition: Gilt on spine is bright and complete. - Hinges/binding integrity: Binding is firm and square; hinges are sound. Interior - Page quality: Pages are clean and crisp with clear map details and text. All maps are present and firmly bound. - Foxing: There is no foxing. - Toning/browning: Pages exhibit a uniform, age-appropriate light toning. - Writing or inscriptions: There are no personal inscriptions or markings. - Tears, stains, creases, or repairs: There are no tears, stains, creases, or repairs. All maps are clean and unfolded.…