Rare Old OS Map of Islay, Jura & Colonsay by Bartholomew, 1901: Bowmore, Paps of Jura, Argyll, Sound of Islay, Loch Indaal, Gruinart & Finlaggan

Step into the captivating world of early 20th-century cartography with "Sheet 6 - Islay, Jura, Colonsay," a masterful creation by the esteemed Scottish cartographer JG Bartholomew in 1901. This exquisite map, part of Bartholomew's renowned Half-Inch series, offers a meticulous and visually stunning representation of the Scottish islands of Islay, Jura, and Colonsay. Bartholomew's innovative use of color gradations to depict landscape relief brings the topography to life, making it an essential piece for both enthusiasts of historical maps and lovers of fine art.

Bartholomew's maps were celebrated for their clarity and aesthetic appeal, making them a favorite among cyclists and tourists of the time. This particular map, based on a reduced Ordnance Survey map, showcases the intricate details of the islands' physical and political features. The map's design is both functional and beautiful, with layers of color subtly indicating the varying elevations of the landscape. This artistic approach not only enhances the map's visual appeal but also provides valuable insights into the terrain of these enchanting Scottish islands.

The map highlights numerous natural landmarks, including the majestic Paps of Jura, the serene Loch Indaal, and the dramatic Sound of Islay. These features, along with the intricate network of lochs such as Loch Tarbert and Loch Gruinart, paint a vivid picture of the region's rugged beauty. The map also captures the dynamic coastal geography, with the Sound of Jura and the Firth of Lorn adding to the allure of the islands. Each feature is meticulously labeled, offering a glimpse into the rich natural heritage of this part of Scotland.

In addition to its natural wonders, the map also provides a detailed look at the human settlements scattered across the islands. From the bustling town of Bowmore on Islay to the tranquil village of Craighouse on Jura, each settlement is carefully marked, reflecting the map's historical significance. The map serves as a window into the past, showcasing the layout and distribution of communities at the turn of the 20th century. This historical context adds depth to the map, making it a valuable resource for historians and collectors alike.

The historical significance of this map extends beyond its geographical accuracy. It represents a period when cartography was both a science and an art, capturing the imagination of those who explored these maps. Bartholomew's dedication to precision and beauty is evident in every detail, making this map a testament to his cartographic prowess. Owning this map is not just about possessing a piece of history; it's about appreciating the craftsmanship and artistry that went into creating such a remarkable representation of the Scottish landscape.

Cities and towns on this map

• Islay:
• Bowmore
• Port Ellen
• Port Charlotte
• Bridgend
• Jura:
• Craighouse
• Colonsay:
• Scalasaig

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Paps of Jura
• Loch Tarbert
• Loch Indaal
• Sound of Islay
• Loch Gruinart
• Loch Finlaggan
• Loch Sween
• Loch na Keal
• Loch Scridain
• Loch Buie
• Loch Spelve
• Loch Craignish
• Loch Caolisport
• Loch Fyne
• Loch Gilp
• Loch Crinan
• Sound of Jura
• Firth of Lorn
• Gulf of Corryvreckan
• Ardmeanach Peninsula

Historical and design context

• A clear, attractive, and colorful map at the half-inch to the mile scale (1:126,720). These maps were popular with cyclists and tourists, becoming Bartholomew's flagship series.
• The half-inch maps were distinctive for using different layers of color to represent landscape relief, with a subtle and innovative gradation of color bands used to show land at different heights.
• The map is based on a reduced Ordnance Survey map from the same period.
• This is a landscape map that covers 36 miles from north to south and 52 miles from west to east.
• Created in 1901 by JG Bartholomew, a renowned Scottish cartographer known for his detailed and aesthetically pleasing maps.
• The map depicts political and physical features, including topography, bodies of water, and transportation routes.
• The map covers parts of Scotland, specifically the islands of Islay, Jura, and Colonsay.
• The map features a meticulous design with color gradations to indicate elevation, making it both functional and visually appealing.
• The map provides insight into early 20th-century cartographic techniques and the landscape of the Scottish islands at that time. It also reflects the popularity of cycling and tourism in that era.

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 70in (180cm). 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.

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 print and frame maps in 22 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 standard frame is a gallery style black ash hardwood frame. It is simple and quite modern looking. My standard frame is around 20mm (0.8in) wide.

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.

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

Most maps are also available as a framed canvas. The map is printed on matte (not shiny) canvas, stretched over a box frame, and then 'floated' within a simple wood frame. The end result is quite beautiful, and there's no glazing in front of your map.

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.

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.

My maps are extremely high quality reproductions of original maps.

I source original, 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 The Unique Maps Co.

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.

Map ageing

I have been asked hundreds of times over the years by customers if they could buy a map that looks even older.

Well, now you can, by selecting Aged before you add a map to your basket.

All the product photos you see on this page show the map in its Original form. This is what the map looks like today.

If you select Aged, I will age your map by hand, using a special and unique process developed through years of studying old maps, talking to researchers to understand the chemistry of aging paper, and of course... lots of practice!

If you're unsure, stick to the Original colour of the map. If you want something a bit darker and older looking, go for Aged.

See some amazing examples of Aged maps.

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 4,000 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.