A stunning, large format sea chart of Macau (Macao), originally published by the British Admiralty in 1840. At the time the area was under Portuguese control, so this map (and the charting required) likely occurred in secret so as to not incur the wrath of another large navy.
You may notice that the islands of Macau look rather different than they do today. This is partly because the map is inaccurate - and partly because of the massive sea reclamation/infill projects that have increased the size of Macao's main islands (Macao, Taipa and Coloane).
You can see that, in 1840, Macao was not very developed at all, with no more than a few streets, churches and forts.
This map looks great at all sizes: 12x16 inches (31x41cm), 18x24 inches (45.5x61cm) and 24x36 inches (61x91.5cm), but it looks even better when printed large.
I can create beautiful, large prints of this map up to 105 inches (266cm). Please get in touch if you're looking for larger, customised or different framing options.
The model in the listing images is holding the 18x24 inches (45.5x61cm) version of this map.
Please note that at 12x16 inches (31x41cm) the writing is very small. The map is still very attractive, but you will struggle to read the smallest labels.
If you’re looking for more options, I have another interesting map of Hong Kong in 1843, also by the British Admiralty.
Some of the locations included on this map are: Macau, Taipa (Typa), Xiao Hengqin Island (Toi-Ko-Ke-Tou Island), Dahengqin Island (Montanha Island) and Coloane (Koho Island).
Many churches are shown on the key of the map, such as St Antonio (St Anthony) church, St Paul and St Joseph's church. You can also see the Monte Fort (Forte Monte) in the middle of Macau's island.
This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving or housewarming gift for someone from the south coast of China or someone who has visited Macau.
This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you'd like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.