Walker’s Miniature Atlas and Gazetteer of the World c. 1910
€45.00
Edited by the prestigious J.G. Bartholomew (Cartographer to the King), this “vest-pocket” atlas is a marvel of early 20th-century miniaturization. Produced by John Walker & Co., Ltd. at Farringdon House, it was marketed as a luxury essential for the Edwardian gentleman and global traveler.
Technical Specifications
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Cartography: Features over 128 finely detailed, full-color maps. Despite the diminutive scale, the maps provide exceptional clarity on global political boundaries, physical relief, and major steamship and rail routes.
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The Gazetteer: Includes a comprehensive 10,000-entry geographical index, offering a dense statistical overview of the world’s major cities and territories.
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Binding & Finish: Housed in its original grained cloth with all-edges gilt. The cover is elegantly minimalist, featuring gilded titles and a distinctive triple-line horizontal border motif. Note the grained cloth cover is quite worn, particularly along the spine where it has peeled off. Page gilding is in good condition.
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Publisher’s Device: Bears the John Walker & Co. “Globe and Crown” sigil, a mark of premium quality in British stationery and reference publishing.
Historical Significance
This atlas serves as a definitive “time capsule” of the pre-World War I era. It captures the world at the height of the British Empire, with the geopolitical landscape of 1910 preserved in vivid detail. The high production value—specifically the gilded page ends and dense paper stock—distinguishes it from standard school atlases of the period, marking it as a piece of professional-grade “pocket” technology.
Collector’s Note
The Bartholomew/Walker collaboration is highly regarded for its micro-lithography. While many small atlases were simplified for children, this “Miniature” edition maintained the rigorous cartographic standards of Bartholomew’s larger folio works, making it a favorite for collectors of antique travel memorabilia.
