Napoleon in Exile
By [OUR HALF SHARE] READ, R. P. , 1815
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This Geographical Plan of The Island & Forts of Saint Helena is Dedicated by Permission to Field Marshal His R[oya]l Highness The Duke of Kent and Strathearn By Lieut. R.P. Read.

Africa Western Africa
  • Author: [OUR HALF SHARE] READ, R. P.
  • Publication place: [London
  • Publisher: Burgis & Barefoot
  • Publication date: October 1815].
  • Physical description: Engraved map, fine original full wash hand-colour, dissected and mounted on linen, descriptive text to verso, folding into original blue paper slipcase with vignette of Napoleon in exile on the verso.
  • Dimensions: 457 by 592mm (18 by 23.25 inches).
  • Inventory reference: 2535

Notes

Napleon’s exile upon the Island of Saint Helena created a huge surge of interest in Great Britain. In order to satisfy the demand for information, the publisher’s Burgis and Barefoot commissioned a Lieutenant R. Read to draw a map of the Emperor’s Island prison. Little is known of Read, however, it is most likely that he had spent some time upon the island, and thus could pinpoint some important geographical information. The map is based upon John Seller’s map of 1675, orientated with southeast at the top, and is replete with information, including: towns, estates, churches, roads, coastal defences, rivers, forests, mountains, bays, and most importantly the residence of Napleon. British naval vessels are depicted on the sea, with areas marked for good fishing. To the lower right of the map are facsimiles of Napoleon’s signature, when first consul and again when Emperor. On the verso of the map is a brief descriptive text of the island giving details upon the islands geography, climate, history and military strength.

Bibliography

  1. This is the second or third of four states: the residence of Napoleon has been changed from "Plantation House" in the first state, to two new locations
  2. first at "The Briars Mr Balcombe"
  3. the second at "Long Wood"
  4. "Plantation House", has been renamed "Plantation House. The Residence of the Governor"
  5. the hatchuring around the coast has been erased. The second and third states differ only in the publisher's imprint, however our example lacks the imprint.
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