Cuba, Cram's Atlas

This chromolithographic map plate from Cram's Unrivaled Family Atlas presents Cuba and the Bahama Islands during the final years of Spanish colonial rule. Published in Chicago by George F. Cram, one of America's premier cartographic houses, the map showcases the meticulous detail and soft pastel palette that defined Victorian-era atlas production. The map captures a Caribbean on the cusp of transformation: Cuba remains the 'Pearl of the Antilles' under Spanish dominion, while the Bahamas rest under the British Crown. Haiti and the Dominican Republic share Hispaniola as independent republics. Florida's southern tip anchors the composition, with the Florida Keys reaching toward Havana across the narrow strait. A distinctive feature of this period piece is its dual longitude reference, noting both Greenwich and Washington, reflecting the cartographic transition following the 1884 International Meridian Conference. The title cartouche and typography exemplify the elegant Victorian aesthetic that made Cram atlases prized household possessions. A compelling piece for collectors of Caribbean materials or pre-Spanish-American War cartography. Size: 10.25" x 13.25" Artist: George F. Cram Condition: Very Good, Age-appropriate wear. Paper toning in accordance with the print's age. Marks/stains as per photo. Wear around the edges and minor paper loss might be present in some prints. Original fold lines may be present. Please refer to each print's image to get a better understanding of the condition.