John Thomson

This is a first edition 1814 John Thomson map of Asia, the Indian Ocean, and Australia.

Coverage embraces all of Asia, Australia, the Indian Ocean, and the western Pacific. Partial coverage includes adjacent parts of Africa, Europe, and America. Relief is shown by hachure with towns, cities, and major topographical features identified. Major spheres of influence are color-coded, including China, Chinese Tartary, West Tartary, Siberia, Persia, Hindoostan, Turkey, and Arabia. The inclusion of Australia and New Zealand are likely meant to put the entire region into the context of the Indian Ocean, the primary vector of maritime trade with Asia and the New South Whales Colony – points of great interest to the British public. Australia is neatly divided with shading between New Holland and New South Wales.

John Thomson