Gold Rush Era Masterpiece: The Tallis & Rapkin Rare Map Of Pre Queensland, 1851
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Dimensions
Wear Condition
Good
Material
Paper
Style
Antique
Product Details
Description
The image is an original historical map of Australia from the year 1851, created by John Rapkin with illustrations by J. Marchant and engravings by J. B. Allen. The map was published by John Tallis & Company, which was one of the most renowned cartographic publishing firms in the 19th century.
An attractive steel engraved map of the continent with good detail along the coastlines that contrasts dramatically with the complete lack of detail in the interior. Tallis filled the blank interior with tables listing county names. The surrounding vignettes include Natives of the Tribe of Bogan, Australian Parrots and Cockatoo, Natives of Australia Felix, Kangaroos, and Sydney.
Here are some key descriptions and interesting facts about the map:
1. **Age and Rarity**: The map dates back to 1851, which is a significant period for Australia as it was just a few years after the discovery of gold in 1851. This would make it a valuable collector's item due to its historical context.
2. **Absence of Queensland**: Notably, the map does not include Queensland, which indicates it was created before Queensland was established as a separate colony in 1859. This highlights the evolving political boundaries of Australia during the 19th century.
3. **Goldfields Marked**: The map shows the locations of goldfields, which is particularly interesting since the 1850s was the decade of the Australian gold rushes. This detail would have been of immense practical importance at the time and now serves as a historical record of the early economic drivers in the region.
4. **Illustrations**: The map features illustrations by J. Marchant, which likely depict scenes typical of the era, such as local wildlife like kangaroos, and cultural images, such as depictions of Indigenous Australians.
5. **Engravings**: The engravings by J. B. Allen add a layer of craftsmanship to the map, making it not just a navigational tool but also a piece of art.
6. **Publisher's Prestige**: John Tallis & Company was known for their detailed and decorative maps, which often included vignettes and ornamental borders. Their work is well-regarded by map collectors and historians.
7. **Artistry and Accuracy**: The combination of accurate cartographic information and artistic embellishments make this map an exemplary piece from the mid-19th century.
This title highlights the map's historical significance related to the Gold Rush, the absence of Queensland, the prestigious creators, and its status as a collectible item. It would likely attract collectors interested in unique historical documents, maps, and Australian history.
Condition report:
Good Good, with some minor soiling mostly in the blank margins. Lower border cut short and not straight, but not affecting the image. Study the scans carefully.
Wear Condition
Good
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Returns
We have a 14-day return guarantee for orders from individual sellers, within the UK and European Union. View full policy.
Additional Delivery Info from Seller
Estimated delivery time
Less than one week
Free collection available
Yes
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Reviews
5.0
Based on 2 reviews
Wear conditions
Excellent
Shows little to no signs of wear and tear.
Good
May show slight traces of use in keeping with age. Most vintage and antique items fit into this condition.
Average
Likely to show signs of some light scratching and ageing but still remains in a fair condition.
Apparent Wear and Tear
Visible signs of previous use including scratches, chips or stains.
Please refer to condition report, images or make a seller enquiry for additional information.
Cancellations and Returns
Last updated: 12/02/2026
Clear, predictable protection for every pre-loved purchase.
Simple £75 flat return fee for UK-to-UK mainland furniture when you change your mind.
Applies to furniture with a final selling price of up to £5,000 (excluding delivery and service fees) and delivered from a UK mainland seller to mainland UK addresses. Excludes Northern Ireland, Channel Islands, Scottish Highlands & Islands, Isle of Wight and Isles of Scilly.
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B. You changed your mind
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To make UK furniture returns predictable and stress-free, we offer a simple flat return fee of £75.
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All other items
Most smaller items are straightforward to return.
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Damage on arrival is uncommon, especially for UK furniture deliveries.
But if something does go wrong, you're fully protected.
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Your statutory rights apply for up to 30 days from delivery.
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6. What happens next
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- Pickup or return method is arranged
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- We issue your refund once the seller confirms the item's condition
Returns are completed smoothly once the pickup is arranged.
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Once the seller receives the piece back in the same condition it was sent, we'll issue your refund to your original payment method.
Once a refund is issued, it may take up to 5–10 working days for the funds to appear back on your original payment method, depending on your bank or card provider.
If the item is returned with new damage that wasn't present at delivery, the refund may be adjusted following review.
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What your service fee covers
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14-day return guarantee
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Flat-fee return shipping on UK furniture
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Seller vetting
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Dedicated customer support
| Order Value (£) | Fee (£) |
|---|---|
| 0 — 49.99 | 2.75 |
| 50 — 99.99 | 5.50 |
| 100 — 199.99 | 11.00 |
| 200 — 399.99 | 21.00 |
| 400 — 599.99 | 30.00 |
| 600 — 799.99 | 40.00 |
| 800 — 999.99 | 50.00 |
| 1,000 — 1,499.99 | 55.00 |
| 1,500 — 1,999.99 | 60.00 |
| 2,000 — 4,999.99 | 82.50 |
| 5,000+ | 110.00 |
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