The The Atlas of Natural Phenomena is an extraordinary and invaluable work in the field of physical atlases, presented in an impressive imperial folio size. The first edition, prepared based on suggestion of Alexander von Humboldt and released in 1848 after five years of meticulous work by the renowned Scottish geographer Alexander Keith Johnston, was extremely well accepted by the scientific community.
This second and enlarged edition includes seven entirely new maps that were absent from the first edition, each bringing a fresh dimension to our understanding of the natural world. These new additions include the Distribution of Marine Life, the Geology of Europe, the Geology of the United States and British North America, the Physical Characteristics of the Arctic Polar Basin, Terrestrial Magnetism, the Moral and Statistical Classification of the Human Family, and the Geographical Distribution of Health and Disease. These maps greatly expand the scope of the atlas and incorporate the most up-to-date scientific knowledge of the time.
In addition to the new maps, six maps from the first edition have been completely withdrawn and reworked, showcasing Johnston's commitment to keeping the atlas as accurate and relevant as possible. According to Johnston, the remaining maps have been 'thoroughly revised'.
One of the most notable enhancements of the second edition is the inclusion of a comprehensive index, which lists over 6,000 names. Each map is accompanied by an extensive essay (sometimes containing additional small scale maps) that provides a deep dive into the subject matter, offering detailed explanations and interpretations.
The maps themselves are printed on exceptionally durable paper, and feature gilt edges, adding a luxurious touch to the overall presentation. The quality of the production is truly remarkable, with every detail crafted to convey both scientific precision and aesthetic beauty.
When compared to the first edition of the Berghaus Phyiskalischer Atlas, Johnston’s maps may seem somewhat less intricate and detailed, but this is part of their appeal. Where the Berghaus maps can sometimes be overwhelming in their level of complexity, Johnston’s maps are lighter, more accessible, and more readable, while still conveying a wealth of information. The clarity of Johnston’s maps makes them an ideal tool for both academic study and casual exploration, offering a balanced approach to cartography that allows the reader to digest the information without feeling burdened by excessive detail.
In terms of the number of maps, the Berghaus Atlas offers approximately two and a half times more maps than Johnston’s work, but when considering the total size printed area, the two atlases are practically equal.
One of the most captivating and unique maps in this second edition is the Geological and Paleontological Map of the United Kingdom. Spanning two plates, this map is an astonishing example of a geological survey and paleontological research combined into one map. It provides a detailed look at the geological structure of the British Isles and identifies paleontological sites with a variety of specialised symbols representing extinct species and fossil locations. When the two plates are combined, they measure a breathtaking 60 x 100 cm, making it one of the most detailed and visually striking maps in the entire atlas.
Among the other remarkable maps in the collection are the vibrantly coloured Map of the Distribution of Important Plants, which is beautifully complemented by ornate typography, and the five intricate maps detailing the distribution of animal species. These animal distribution maps are particularly noteworthy for their complex an unique layout, variety of inset maps and statistical charts, vertical profile diagrams illustrating the altitudinal range of various species, and vivid illustrations of different animals in their natural habitats.
The Distribution of Health & Disease map is another highlight, offering an innovative and thought-provoking exploration of the global patterns of health and illness. The map is augmented with statistical diagrams that show the mortality rates in various countries and cities, providing an early example of how geographical data can be used to understand public health trends.
In sum, The Physical Atlas of Natural Phenomena is a monumental achievement in the field of cartography and geography. It not only showcases Johnston’s skill as a cartographer but also reflects the intellectual spirit of the Victorian era—a time when scientific exploration was pushing the boundaries of human knowledge. The atlas is a rich blend of art and science, offering a stunning visual representation of the natural world while providing readers with a wealth of detailed, expertly researched information. Whether used as a reference tool, a work of art, or simply a fascinating historical document, this atlas remains a truly remarkable testament to the pursuit of knowledge.
Provenance of this copy
The copy of The Atlas of Natural Phenomena we possess was once owned by Lieutenant-General Augustus Henry Lane Fox Pitt Rivers, a figure of great historical significance in both the military and the fields of archaeology and anthropology. Born in 1827, Pitt Rivers led a distinguished career in the British Army, serving in the Crimean War and various posts around the British Empire before retiring in 1882 with the honorary rank of Lieutenant-General. His later life was marked by his passion for collecting and studying archaeological and ethnographic objects, of which he managed to collect nearly 26.000, and which would become the foundation of the renowned Pitt Rivers Museum at the University of Oxford.
