This authentic late 19th-century map of Asia, engraved by W. & A.K. Johnston, was published in 1886 as part of the Elementary School Atlas of General and Descriptive Geography. Originally based on the cartographic work of W. & A.K. Johnston, this edition presents a detailed and refined view of Asia as understood at the time.

 

Johnston was known for precise mapping techniques, contributing to the improved geographical knowledge of the continent. This map captures Asia’s political divisions, major rivers, trade routes, and regions that were still evolving due to colonial influences and territorial changes.

 

🖋️ Engraver: W. & A.K. Johnston

🗓️ Date of Publication: 1886

📍 Region: Asia

📚 Source: Elementary School Atlas of General and Descriptive Geography

🔍 Technique: Steel engraving with color

🖼️ Image Area: Approx. 9.25 x 12 inches

📄 Sheet Size: Approx. 10.5 x 13.25 inches

📌 Condition: Good. Original fold as issued. Some aging and slight foxing (especially at bottom margin), consistent with maps of this era. Some splitting at fold in lower margin has been tape repaired verso.

 

🌍 Notes:

🏯 China & The Qing Dynasty

• The Qing Dynasty was struggling with internal strife and external pressures. The Sino-French War (1884–1885) had just ended, leading to the loss of Chinese influence in Vietnam.
• The Self-Strengthening Movement, aimed at modernizing China’s military and economy, was ongoing but faced resistance from conservative factions.

⛩️ Japan’s Meiji Restoration

• Japan was undergoing rapid modernization under the Meiji Restoration (1868–1912), transforming from a feudal society into an industrialized nation.
• The Japanese Empire was expanding its influence, particularly in Korea, which would later lead to conflicts with China and Russia.

🚂 Trade & Infrastructure

• The Trans-Siberian Railway project was in its early planning stages, aiming to connect European Russia with the Pacific coast.
• Hong Kong was a thriving British colony, serving as a major hub for trade between Europe and Asia.