Old Map of India, Pakistan & Bangladesh by Arrowsmith, 1857: Ceylon, Tibet, Nepal, Himalayas, Ganges River Plains

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of South Asian history with the 'India' map, meticulously crafted by the esteemed cartographer, John Arrowsmith in 1857. This map, a detailed political and physical representation, captures the essence of India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, with a particular focus on Ceylon, Tibet, and Nepal. As a part of Arrowsmith's renowned London Atlas, this map serves as a striking example of his masterful cartographic skills and his commitment to accuracy and detail. His profound understanding of geography and geopolitics shines through in the delineation of the boundaries, the intricate detailing of the terrain, and the careful placement of significant cities and towns.

The 'India' map, in its exquisite detail, paints a vivid picture of the political landscape of the time. The national boundaries as they stood in 1857 are clearly outlined, offering a fascinating insight into the historical context of the region. The inclusion of Ceylon (now Sri Lanka), Tibet, and Nepal further enriches this narrative, shedding light on the complex interplay of regional politics and territorial claims. This map, therefore, is not merely a geographical representation, but also a historical document that encapsulates a significant period in South Asian history.

Arrowsmith's 'India' is a testament to the cartographer's ability to marry aesthetics with accuracy. The physical features of the region, including its diverse topography, are beautifully depicted. The rugged mountain ranges of the Himalayas, the fertile plains of the Ganges, and the dense forests of the Western Ghats are all captured with an artist's eye for detail. The map's depiction of natural phenomena and landmarks is not only scientifically accurate but also artistically pleasing, making it a true masterpiece of cartographic art.

Lastly, the 'India' map stands out as an interesting country map due to its comprehensive coverage of the region. It is not limited to the depiction of the political and physical features of India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, but extends to include the significant regions of Ceylon, Tibet, and Nepal. This broad scope, combined with Arrowsmith's meticulous attention to detail, results in a map that is both informative and intriguing. It invites the viewer to explore the rich history and diverse geography of South Asia, making it a valuable addition to any collection.

The 'India, Pakistan & Bangladesh' map by John Arrowsmith, 1857, encompasses a wide array of geographical and historical features. Here are some of the notable aspects covered by this map, categorized by country:

India:

• Delhi, the capital city
• Mumbai, a major port city
• Kolkata, the cultural hub
• Chennai, the gateway to South India
• The Ganges River Plains, a fertile region
• The Himalayan Mountain Range, home to the highest peaks in the world
• The Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot
• The Thar Desert, a large arid region

Pakistan:

• Karachi, the largest city and main seaport
• Lahore, a historical city
• The Indus River, the country's longest river
• The Khyber Pass, a historically significant mountain pass

Bangladesh:

• Dhaka, the capital city
• Chittagong, a major coastal city
• The Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest
• The Brahmaputra River, a major river flowing through the country

Ceylon (Sri Lanka):

• Colombo, the commercial capital
• Kandy, a city of historical significance
• The Central Highlands, a region of high biodiversity

Tibet:

• Lhasa, the capital city
• The Potala Palace, a historic landmark
• Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world

Nepal:

• Kathmandu, the capital city
• The Annapurna Range, a popular trekking region
• Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha

Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.

This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.

This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 100in (250cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

Please note: the labels on this map are hard to read if you order a map that is 20in (50cm) or smaller. The map is still very attractive, but if you would like to read the map easily, please buy a larger size.

The model in the listing images is holding the 16x20in (40x50cm) version of this map.

The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.

If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.

Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.

This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.

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.

My standard frame is a gallery style black ash hardwood frame. It is simple and quite modern looking. On maps up to 36 inches (91cm) the frame is 1.5-3cm (0.6in to 1in) wide. I use thicker frames on larger maps - usually between 35 and 60mm (1.4in to 2.4in).

In all cases I use super-clear acrylic (perspex/acrylite) for the frame glass. It's lighter and safer than glass - and it looks better, as the reflectivity is lower.

All frames are provided "ready to hang", with either a string or brackets on the back. Very large frames will have heavy duty hanging plates and/or a mounting baton. If you have any questions, please get in touch.

See some examples of my framed maps and framed canvas maps.

A few different frame colours are available for free (black, brown, white, oak and antique gold). Custom framing and mounting/matting is available if you're looking for something else.

Alternatively, I can also supply old maps on canvas, foam board, cotton rag and other materials.

If you want to frame your map yourself, please read my map size guide first.

For most orders, delivery time is about 3 working days. Personalised and custom made maps take longer, as I have to do the personalisation and send it to you for approval, which usually takes a day or two.

Please note that for larger framed orders (over 40in/100cm), and some other framed sizes, the delivery time will be closer to 7-10 days.

If you need your order to arrive by a certain date, please contact me before you order so that we can find the best way of making sure you get your order in time.

I have specialist printing and framing facilities in 17 countries around the world. This means your map will be made locally, which cuts down on delivery time and reduces the chance of your map being damaged during delivery. There won't be any extra taxes or duties to pay, and we'll put less CO2 into the air.

All of my maps are well packaged and sent in a rugged tube if unframed, or surrounded by foam if framed.

I try to send out all maps within 1 or 2 days of receiving your order, though some products (like face masks or mugs) can take longer to make.

If you select Express Delivery at checkout your order we will prioritise your order and send it out by 1-day courier (Fedex, DHL, UPS, Parcelforce).

We can sometimes do next-day delivery if you order before 10am. But usually it's best to contact me first before you order.

Read my full delivery and local production guide

My maps are extremely high quality reproductions of original maps.

I source original, extremely rare maps from libraries, auction houses and private collections around the world, restore them at my London workshop, and then use specialist giclée inks and printers to create beautiful maps that look even better than the original.

My maps are printed on acid-free archival matte (not glossy) paper that feels very high quality and almost like card. In technical terms the paper weight/thickness is 10mil/200gsm. It's perfect for framing.

I print with Epson ultrachrome giclée UV fade resistant pigment inks - some of the best inks you can find.

I can also make maps on canvas, cotton rag and other exotic materials.

Learn more about how the Unique Maps Co. sources and restores old maps

Map personalisation

If you're looking for the perfect anniversary or housewarming gift, I can personalise your map to make it truly unique. For example, I can add a short message, or highlight an important location, or add your family's coat of arms.

The options are almost infinite. Please see my map personalisation page for some wonderful examples of what's possible.

To order a personalised map, select "personalise your map" before adding it to your basket.

Get in touch if you're looking for more complex customisations and personalisations.

If you are not happy with your unique map for any reason, contact me for a no-quibble refund.

I am very confident you will like your old map. I have been doing this since 1984. I'm a 5-star Etsy seller. I have sold tens of thousands of maps and have over 1,500 real 5-star reviews.

I use a unique process to restore my maps that is massively time consuming and labour intensive. Hunting down the original maps can take months. I use state of the art and eye-wateringly expensive technology to scan and restore the maps. As a result, I guarantee my maps are a cut above the rest - that's why I can offer a no-quibble refund.

Almost all of my maps look amazing at large sizes (200cm, 6.5ft+) and I can frame and deliver them to you as well, via special oversized courier. Contact me to discuss your specific needs.