Mediterranean Sea Map Appraisal

Stieler's Hand-Atlas Map: Das Mittelländische Meer und Nord-Afrika

This is a detailed 19th-century steel-engraved map titled 'Das Mittelländische Meer und Nord-Afrika' (The Mediterranean Sea and North Africa), plate number 52 from Stieler's Hand-Atlas. The map is a fine example of German cartography by Justus Perthes of Gotha, likely dating to the 1870s or 1880s based on the topographical style and political boundaries shown. It is printed on heavy cream-toned paper with exquisite hand-colored outlines in pink, yellow, blue, and green to denote regional borders. The map covers a vast area including Southeastern Europe, the Ottoman Empire (Turkey, Levant), and Northern Africa from Egypt to the Maghreb. The level of detail is exceptional, featuring mountainous hachuring, river systems, and densely packed place names in German. Notable markings include the title cartouche in the upper right, a detailed legend, and the 'Stieler's Hand-Atlas' series identifier. The condition appears fair to good with minor edge wear, slight curling of the paper, and typical light age-toning. There are visible creases at the corners and a central fold consistent with atlas binding. The craftsmanship reflects the high standards of the Geographische Anstalt in Gotha, known for precision and scientific accuracy during the Victorian era.