Item number: CSMT436
Genuine Antique Map, Framed
1866
Maker: Nutting / Mayer / Russell
Exceedingly rare antique bird's-eye view of the city of Boston, published by B.B. Russell & Co., after a drawing by B. F. (Benjamin Franklin) Nutting, J. Mayer & Co. Lith. Dated 1866. This impressive print is rarely seen on the market, the only past sales records we found were from 2005 (the Maggi-Spaulding Sotheby's auction in Amsterdam) and 1917. One example can be found in the Leventhal collection at the Boston Public Library and one is shown in Worldcat at the Boston Athenaeum. The view is oriented as from above Cambridge looking eastward and takes in the city proper, as well as East Boston, South Boston and the harbor. Exquisite detail in the city with a lighter touch towards the horizon where one can see Winthrop and Hull receding into the distance. This was made in the middle of the Back Bay fill project, and the lower right corner shows some open area that was being developed with new buildings. Careful attention to details shows every bridge, wharf, and street, with the Common and Public Gardens, State House, churches, etc. We found a digitization of an original advertisement for the map from 1865, which we have included in the photos online (not included with purchase). This map is framed in an antique gold leaf frame, which has some imperfections due to age but is sturdy and handsome. The frame has a small chip in the upper left corner and a separation of the join that was repaired with a nail in the side, as well as wear of the gold leaf, especially where a previous owner was cleaning it: along the bottom and near the glass. The map was reframed within the last 40 years and appears to have an archival mat and UV protective glass. The map is in very good condition with a slight water stain in the lower left corner, a small spot or two, and a mild wrinkle at the top in the sky. Measures approx. 23.75 x 34 inches to the image edges (excluding title). Approx. 25.25 x 34 inches including title. Total size with the frame is approx. 33.5 x 42.5 inches.
Shipping: This map as framed will require special shipping. We will charge a small fee to bring the map to our shipping partner who will be able to professionally package and ship the map, and will charge the buyer directly (it will likely cost several hundred dollars to ship and insure, possibly more if going a long way). In-store pick up is recommended. Can be shipped without the frame- please contact us if you prefer this option (an additional fee for the shipping insurance will be required).
Genuine Antique Map, Framed from 1866
Item Number: CSMT436